2005 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 7 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 390 kg more than 1998 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt (203 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Cobalt | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 55 L |
