2006 Chrysler 300 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Chrysler 300 is newer by 8 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler 300 (246 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 585 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 2006 Chrysler 300 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 2006 Chrysler 300. 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, 2006 Chrysler 300 (340 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2006 Chrysler 300 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler 300 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chrysler | Mazda |
| Model | 300 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
