2004 Ford Focus vs. 2001 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 323. (124 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 136 kg more than 2001 Mazda 323. 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, 2004 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 323. (167 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 2001 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Focus | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1220 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
