2004 Ford Expedition vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Ford Expedition is newer by 7 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 5,407 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Expedition is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Expedition (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Expedition should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Expedition weights approximately 1279 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 2004 Ford Expedition 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 2004 Ford Expedition. 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, 2004 Ford Expedition (475 Nm) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Expedition will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323. 2004 Ford Expedition 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. 2004 Ford Expedition will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Expedition | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Expedition | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5407 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2494 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1980 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2620 mm |
