1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2007 Mazda 5
To start off, 2007 Mazda 5 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 5 (153 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 5 weights approximately 16 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 5 (201 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2007 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
