1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 29 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 2006 Mazda 3 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 323 | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
Horse Power | 71 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 130 Nm | 182 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1134 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |