2005 Kia Sorento vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Kia Sorento 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 2,351 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Sorento (139 HP) has 65 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Sorento weights approximately 889 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 Kia Sorento 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 Kia Sorento 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 Kia Sorento (192 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Sorento | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sorento | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2351 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1944 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
