2002 Holden Cruze vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Holden Cruze 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 42 more horse power than 2002 Holden Cruze. (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2002 Holden Cruze. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2002 Holden Cruze. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Holden Cruze is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Holden Cruze will offer significantly more control. 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Holden Cruze. (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Holden Cruze.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Holden Cruze | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Cruze | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2620 mm |
