2008 Chevrolet Avalanche vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche is newer by 11 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche (320 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche weights approximately 51 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.
Because 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche 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, 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche (461 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 281 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323. 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Avalanche | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Avalanche | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 461 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5630 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1950 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2620 mm |
