2008 Kia Spectra5 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra5 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 1,973 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Kia Spectra5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Spectra5 (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra5 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra5 weights approximately 170 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.
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, 2008 Kia Spectra5 (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Kia Spectra5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Spectra5 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Spectra5 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
