2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer 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 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 243 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer 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 Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Explorer (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323. 2009 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2620 mm |
