1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Tata Nano
To start off, 2012 Tata Nano 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 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2012 Tata Nano. (35 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2012 Tata Nano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 505 kg more than 2012 Tata Nano. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Tata Nano 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 Tata Nano. 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Tata Nano. (48 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Tata Nano. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2012 Tata Nano has manual transmission. 2012 Tata Nano 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 Tata Nano | |
| Make | Mazda | Tata |
| Model | 323 | Nano |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 624 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 35 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 48 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3099 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1495 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1652 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2230 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 37 L |
