1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Volvo XC90
To start off, 2009 Volvo XC90 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 2,399 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volvo XC90 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volvo XC90 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volvo XC90 weights approximately 284 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 Volvo XC90 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volvo XC90 will offer significantly more control. 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 Volvo XC90 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volvo XC90 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2009 Volvo XC90 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 Volvo XC90 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2009 Volvo XC90 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volvo |
| Model | 323 | XC90 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 2399 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1369 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1900 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
