1999 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 163 kg more than 1999 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda 323 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
