1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Toyota Prius V
To start off, 2012 Toyota Prius V 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Prius V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Toyota Prius V (134 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Toyota Prius V should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Prius V weights approximately 410 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, 2012 Toyota Prius V (142 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Prius V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2012 Toyota Prius V | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 323 | Prius V |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1575 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2779 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 45 L |
