2007 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe is newer by 10 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 2,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe (186 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 599 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, 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe (248 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Santa Fe | 323 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2701 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 186 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1814 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
