1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Seat Leon
To start off, 2011 Seat Leon 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Seat Leon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Seat Leon (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Seat Leon should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Seat Leon weights approximately 235 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 Seat Leon (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Seat Leon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2011 Seat Leon | |
| Make | Mazda | Seat |
| Model | 323 | Leon |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
