1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Mazda 2
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 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 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 2 (99 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 2 weights approximately 733 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda 2 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2004 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 99 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1788 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
