1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander
To start off, 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander is newer by 5 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), 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander weights approximately 470 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 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2003 Mitsubishi Outlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Outlander |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
