2009 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe (186 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe weights approximately 750 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 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 Hyundai Santa Fe 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 Hyundai Santa Fe (248 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (134 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Santa Fe | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Hyundai | Mazda |
| Model | Santa Fe | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 186 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1855 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1800 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
