2009 Ford E-250 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Ford E-250 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 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford E-250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford E-250 (225 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford E-250 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 109 kg more than 2009 Ford E-250.
Because 2009 Ford E-250 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 Ford E-250. 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 Ford E-250 (388 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford E-250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2009 Ford E-250 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 Ford E-250 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford E-250 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | E-250 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 6030 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2140 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 55 L |
