2000 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2000 Ford Focus is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2000 Ford Focus. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2000 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2000 Ford Focus. 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, 1997 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ford Focus | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 323 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
