2001 Lexus GS vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2001 Lexus GS 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Lexus GS (225 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Lexus GS weights approximately 555 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 Lexus GS 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 Lexus GS. 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 Lexus GS (298 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2001 Lexus GS has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Lexus GS | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Lexus | Mazda |
| Model | GS | 323 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 21.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
