1959 BMW 700 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (74 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (39 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 425 kg more than 1959 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 BMW 700 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 1959 BMW 700. 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, 1998 Mazda 323 (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (50 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 700 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 700 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 695 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 50 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 630 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 55 L |
