2009 Kia Carens vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Kia Carens 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Carens is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Carens (143 HP) has 69 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Carens should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Carens weights approximately 372 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Kia Carens (189 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Carens will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Carens | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Carens | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
