1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 3 weights approximately 393 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, 2007 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | 323 | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2261 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 256 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 94 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 1488 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |