1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Suzuki Equator
To start off, 2012 Suzuki Equator is newer by 14 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 2,488 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Suzuki Equator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Suzuki Equator (152 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Suzuki Equator should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2012 Suzuki Equator.
Because 2012 Suzuki Equator is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 Suzuki Equator. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Suzuki Equator (232 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Suzuki Equator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2012 Suzuki Equator has manual transmission. 2012 Suzuki Equator 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 | 2012 Suzuki Equator | |
Make | Mazda | Suzuki |
Model | 323 | Equator |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 2488 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 88 HP | 152 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 134 Nm | 232 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1095 kg | 975 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 5250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1750 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3200 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |