1999 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda 323 weights approximately 7 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
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, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
