2001 Mazda 323 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 323. (124 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 188 kg more than 2001 Mazda 323. 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 323. (167 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 323. 2013 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda 323 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
