1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Nissan Versa
To start off, 2008 Nissan Versa 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Versa is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Versa (123 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Versa should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Versa weights approximately 1300 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 Nissan Versa (172 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Versa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2008 Nissan Versa has manual transmission. 2008 Nissan Versa 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 | 2008 Nissan Versa | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | 323 | Versa |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 2405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
