2009 Chevrolet Avalanche vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is newer by 11 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche (310 HP) has 236 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche weights approximately 1086 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 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche 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 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche (454 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche 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. 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Avalanche | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 310 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 454 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2141 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5630 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1950 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3310 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 55 L |
