1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2013 Scion FR-S
To start off, 2013 Scion FR-S is newer by 15 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Scion FR-S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Scion FR-S (197 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Scion FR-S should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Scion FR-S weights approximately 176 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.
Because 2013 Scion FR-S 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 2013 Scion FR-S. 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, 2013 Scion FR-S (205 Nm @ 6600 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Scion FR-S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2013 Scion FR-S | |
| Make | Mazda | Scion |
| Model | 323 | FR-S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 1251 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4235 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
