1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 Hyundai i20
To start off, 2012 Hyundai i20 is newer by 14 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 1,396 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Hyundai i20 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Hyundai i20 (99 HP) has 25 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Hyundai i20 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Hyundai i20 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.
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, 2012 Hyundai i20 (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Hyundai i20 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2012 Hyundai i20 | |
| Make | Mazda | Hyundai |
| Model | 323 | i20 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 99 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 17:01 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1055 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2525 mm |
