2009 Chevrolet Traverse vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 12 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (288 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 46 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 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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, 2009 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse 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. 2009 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Traverse | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Traverse | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 288 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5210 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2620 mm |
