2006 Ford Freestar vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Ford Freestar is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,898 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Freestar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Freestar (193 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Freestar should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Freestar weights approximately 500 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Freestar (325 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Freestar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323. 2006 Ford Freestar has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Ford Freestar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Freestar | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Freestar | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3898 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1950 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2620 mm |
