2001 Kia Shuma vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2001 Kia Shuma 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2001 Kia Shuma. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2001 Kia Shuma. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 38 kg more than 2001 Kia Shuma. 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Kia Shuma. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Kia Shuma. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2001 Kia Shuma has manual transmission. 2001 Kia Shuma will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Kia Shuma | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Shuma | 323 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.4 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
