2004 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe (203 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 640 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 Hyundai Santa Fe 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, 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 Hyundai Santa Fe (292 Nm) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Santa Fe | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 292 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2620 mm |
