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 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (108 HP) has 34 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) 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 173 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 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 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 | 1323 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 75.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
