2009 Mazda CX-7 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-7 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 74 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 Mazda CX-7 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 188 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2009 Mazda CX-7 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 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda CX-7 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | CX-7 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 244 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 55 L |
