1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2004 Cadillac CTS is newer by 6 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 2,597 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Cadillac CTS (179 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 492 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 2004 Cadillac CTS 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 2004 Cadillac CTS. 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, 2004 Cadillac CTS (245 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2004 Cadillac CTS | |
| Make | Mazda | Cadillac |
| Model | 323 | CTS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 179 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 83.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
