2002 Ford Fiesta vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Ford Fiesta is newer by 4 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 55 more horse power than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 8 kg more than 2002 Ford Fiesta. 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 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Fiesta. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Fiesta. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Fiesta 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:
| 2002 Ford Fiesta | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
