1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2010 Mercury Mariner
To start off, 2010 Mercury Mariner is newer by 12 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mercury Mariner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercury Mariner (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercury Mariner should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercury Mariner weights approximately 395 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, 2010 Mercury Mariner (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercury Mariner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2010 Mercury Mariner 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. 2010 Mercury Mariner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2010 Mercury Mariner | |
| Make | Mazda | Mercury |
| Model | 323 | Mariner |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1515 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4458 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1806 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2619 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
