1972 BMW 2002 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 2002. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 2002 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 BMW 2002 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 2002 (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 2002 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 2002 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 2002 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 1972 BMW 2002. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 1972 BMW 2002 (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 2002 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 2002 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 2002 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.1 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 955 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 50 L |
