2004 Mazda 2 vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 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 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mazda 323 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 2 weights approximately 573 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323.
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, 1997 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 2 | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 2 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1788 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2620 mm |
