2004 Holden Cruze vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Holden Cruze is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Holden Cruze (72 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Holden Cruze should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2004 Holden Cruze.
Because 2004 Holden Cruze is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Holden Cruze 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, 2004 Holden Cruze (138 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Holden Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Holden Cruze | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Holden | Mazda |
| Model | Cruze | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2620 mm |
