1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2006 Toyota Prius 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Prius (76 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Prius should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota Prius weights approximately 125 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.
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 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Toyota Prius. (116 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Toyota Prius. 2006 Toyota Prius 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. 2006 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2006 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Prius |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
