1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Mazda 5
To start off, 2008 Mazda 5 is newer by 10 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 5 (143 HP) has 69 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 5 weights approximately 405 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, 2008 Mazda 5 (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 143 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
