1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2006 Toyota RAV4 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 3,540 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota RAV4 (269 HP) has 195 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 285 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 Toyota RAV4 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, 2006 Toyota RAV4 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, 2006 Toyota RAV4 (334 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 225 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota RAV4 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 RAV4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3540 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 269 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
