1971 BMW 3 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 275 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 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 21.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 55 L |
