1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Seat Ibiza
To start off, 2009 Seat Ibiza 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Seat Ibiza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Seat Ibiza (158 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Seat Ibiza should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Seat Ibiza weights approximately 145 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 Seat Ibiza (330 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Seat Ibiza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2009 Seat Ibiza | |
| Make | Mazda | Seat |
| Model | 323 | Ibiza |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
