2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 100 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 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 MX-5 Miata. 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 MX-5 Miata (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 MX-5 Miata will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | MX-5 Miata | 323 |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 88 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 189 Nm | 133 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 78.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1075 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4320 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2620 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |