1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Pontiac Vibe
To start off, 2003 Pontiac Vibe 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Pontiac Vibe (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Pontiac Vibe should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Pontiac Vibe weights approximately 120 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 Pontiac Vibe 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 Pontiac Vibe 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 Pontiac Vibe (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Pontiac Vibe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2003 Pontiac Vibe | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | 323 | Vibe |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 91 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
