1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2011 Toyota Highlander 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Highlander (270 HP) has 196 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 860 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 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2011 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2011 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 270 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
