1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Porsche Cayman
To start off, 2008 Porsche Cayman 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 3,386 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Porsche Cayman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Porsche Cayman (291 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 220 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Porsche Cayman should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Porsche Cayman weights approximately 310 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 2008 Porsche Cayman is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Porsche Cayman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Porsche Cayman (340 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Porsche Cayman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2008 Porsche Cayman | |
| Make | Mazda | Porsche |
| Model | 323 | Cayman |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3386 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 291 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2420 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
