2005 Honda S2000 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Honda S2000 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 2,204 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Honda S2000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Honda S2000 (240 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Honda S2000 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Honda S2000 weights approximately 211 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.
Because 2005 Honda S2000 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Honda S2000. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Honda S2000 (220 Nm @ 7500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Honda S2000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Honda S2000 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | S2000 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2204 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.1:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1326 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
