1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero is newer by 7 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 3,200 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero (160 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 950 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 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero 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, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero 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, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero (372 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero 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. 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Pajero |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 372 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 98.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 105 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 2055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 71 L |
