2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1995 Mazda 323
To start off, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata (110 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1995 Mazda 323. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda 323 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1995 Mazda 323 (168 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (161 Nm). This means 1995 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1995 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 323 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1430 mm |
