2001 Ford Econovan vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2001 Ford Econovan is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Econovan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Econovan (96 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Econovan should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Econovan weights approximately 360 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Ford Econovan 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 2001 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2001 Ford Econovan (155 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Econovan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Econovan | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Econovan | 323 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2620 mm |
