2006 Maserati MC12 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 Maserati MC12 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Maserati MC12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Maserati MC12 (623 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 509 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Maserati MC12 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Maserati MC12 weights approximately 207 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 Maserati MC12 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 Maserati MC12. 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 Maserati MC12 (652 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 490 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Maserati MC12 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 Maserati MC12 has manual transmission. 2006 Maserati MC12 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 Maserati MC12 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Maserati | Mazda |
| Model | MC12 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 5998 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 623 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 652 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5150 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2100 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1210 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 55 L |
