1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2008 Toyota RAV4 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 RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota RAV4 (269 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 250 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 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota RAV4 will offer significantly more control. 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 RAV4 (334 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2008 Toyota RAV4 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 RAV4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2008 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
