2005 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 599 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 Hyundai Santa Fe 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, 2005 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, 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe (250 Nm) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm). This means 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Santa Fe | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2655 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1704 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
