2007 Audi S3 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2007 Audi S3 is newer by 9 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Audi S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Audi S3 (262 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Audi S3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Audi S3 weights approximately 350 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 2007 Audi S3 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, 2007 Audi S3 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, 2007 Audi S3 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2007 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 2007 Audi S3 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:
| 2007 Audi S3 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | S3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 262 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
