1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2008 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2008 Toyota Tacoma 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 3,956 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Tacoma (236 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Tacoma should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323.
Because 2008 Toyota Tacoma 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 Toyota Tacoma. 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 Toyota Tacoma (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Tacoma 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 Toyota Tacoma has manual transmission. 2008 Toyota Tacoma 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 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 79 L |
