1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Pontiac Solstice
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 2,383 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Solstice is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (173 HP) has 99 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Solstice should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac Solstice weights approximately 259 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 2009 Pontiac Solstice 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 2009 Pontiac Solstice. 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, 2009 Pontiac Solstice (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Solstice will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 2009 Pontiac Solstice | |
Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
Model | 323 | Solstice |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2383 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 173 HP |
Torque | 109 Nm | 226 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2420 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 49 L |