1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Suzuki Equator
To start off, 2009 Suzuki Equator 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki Equator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki Equator (261 HP) has 187 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki Equator should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Suzuki Equator weights approximately 225 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 Suzuki Equator 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 Suzuki Equator. 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 Suzuki Equator (381 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 272 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki Equator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2009 Suzuki Equator has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Suzuki Equator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2009 Suzuki Equator | |
| Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
| Model | 323 | Equator |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 261 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 381 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 5250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
