2006 Honda Element vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Honda Element 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 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Honda Element (156 HP) has 82 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Honda Element weights approximately 922 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 Honda Element 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, 2006 Honda Element 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, 2006 Honda Element (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2006 Honda Element 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 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Honda Element | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Element | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1992 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
