1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Toyota Highlander 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 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP) has 196 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 314 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 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2008 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2008 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 270 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1384 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
