1958 BMW 502 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,580 cc (8 cylinders), 1958 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1958 BMW 502 (101 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1958 BMW 502 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1958 BMW 502 weights approximately 315 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 1958 BMW 502 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 1958 BMW 502. 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. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 1958 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1958 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 BMW 502 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 502 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
