2008 Kia Sorento vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Kia Sorento is newer by 10 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Kia Sorento is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Sorento (194 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Sorento should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Sorento weights approximately 952 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 2008 Kia Sorento 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, 2008 Kia Sorento 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 Kia Sorento (301 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Sorento will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2008 Kia Sorento has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Kia Sorento will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Sorento | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sorento | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3497 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2027 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
