2002 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,870 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero (112 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero weights approximately 172 kg more than 2002 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero 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, 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda 323 | 2005 Mitsubishi Pajero | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 323 | Pajero |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 112 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
