2002 Honda Civic vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2002 Honda Civic is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2002 Honda Civic. (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 159 kg more than 2002 Honda Civic. 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, 1997 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Civic. (139 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda Civic | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Civic | 323 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1344 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |
