2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 80 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 323 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 124 HP | 88 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 78.4 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1075 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |