2006 Kia Carnival vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Kia Carnival 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 2,902 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Kia Carnival is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Kia Carnival (182 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Kia Carnival should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Kia Carnival weights approximately 1063 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.
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 Kia Carnival (343 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Kia Carnival will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2006 Kia Carnival has manual transmission. 2006 Kia Carnival will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Kia Carnival | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Carnival | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2902 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 343 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97.2 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2168 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1990 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
