2003 Jaguar XJ vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Jaguar XJ 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 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Jaguar XJ (294 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 400 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Jaguar XJ is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Jaguar XJ. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Jaguar XJ (411 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323. 2003 Jaguar XJ 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 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Jaguar XJ | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Jaguar | Mazda |
| Model | XJ | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 294 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 411 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5090 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2620 mm |
