1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Toyota MR2
To start off, 2006 Toyota MR2 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota MR2 (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota MR2 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 55 kg more than 2006 Toyota MR2.
Because 2006 Toyota MR2 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 Toyota MR2. 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 Toyota MR2 (170 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota MR2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2006 Toyota MR2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | MR2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 91.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
