2009 Honda Ridgeline vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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 3,470 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Honda Ridgeline is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Ridgeline (250 HP) has 176 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Ridgeline should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 18 kg more than 2009 Honda Ridgeline.
Because 2009 Honda Ridgeline is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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 Honda Ridgeline (335 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Ridgeline will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2009 Honda Ridgeline 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 Honda Ridgeline will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Ridgeline | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Ridgeline | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3470 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 335 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5260 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3110 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 55 L |
