2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 43 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
