1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Kia Forte
To start off, 2011 Kia Forte is newer by 13 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), 2011 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Kia Forte (173 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Forte weights approximately 209 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, 2011 Kia Forte (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2011 Kia Forte has manual transmission. 2011 Kia Forte will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2011 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Mazda | Kia |
| Model | 323 | Forte |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4341 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2649 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 52 L |
