1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2002 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2002 Toyota MR2 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Toyota MR2 (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Toyota MR2 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Toyota MR2 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2002 Toyota MR2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2002 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm). This means 2002 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2002 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
