1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 370 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
