2003 Isuzu Ascender vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Isuzu Ascender is newer by 6 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Isuzu Ascender is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Isuzu Ascender (282 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Isuzu Ascender should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323.
Because 2003 Isuzu Ascender is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Isuzu Ascender 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, 2003 Isuzu Ascender (441 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Isuzu Ascender will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323. 2003 Isuzu Ascender has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Isuzu Ascender will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Isuzu Ascender | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Isuzu | Mazda |
| Model | Ascender | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 441 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5280 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1920 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3280 mm | 2620 mm |
