1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Mazda 6
To start off, 2011 Mazda 6 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 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 6 (127 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 6 weights approximately 445 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 Mazda 6 (340 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2011 Mazda 6 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. 2011 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2011 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2183 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
