1999 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 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 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 278 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.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda 323 | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
