1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Saturn Sky
To start off, 2009 Saturn Sky 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saturn Sky is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saturn Sky (173 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saturn Sky should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saturn Sky weights approximately 620 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 Saturn Sky 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 Saturn Sky. 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 Saturn Sky (226 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Saturn Sky will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mazda 323 | 2009 Saturn Sky | |
Make | Mazda | Saturn |
Model | 323 | Sky |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 173 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 226 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 99.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 75.9 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.2:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1735 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4100 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 |