1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2004 Toyota Highlander 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 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Toyota Highlander (148 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 580 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 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2004 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2004 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 96 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
