1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (60 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (125 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | 323 | Polo |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 60 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
