1998 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 9 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. 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, 1998 Mazda MX-3 (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda MX-3 | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-3 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
