2009 Mazda B2300 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Mazda B2300 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 2,266 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda B2300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda B2300 (143 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda B2300 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2009 Mazda B2300.
Because 2009 Mazda B2300 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 Mazda B2300. 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 Mazda B2300 (209 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda B2300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda B2300 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | B2300 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2266 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 3 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 960 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
