1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (93 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 145 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323.
Because 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara 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, 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara has manual transmission. 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2004 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 323 | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1590 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 30 L |
