1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 89 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
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 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 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 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
