1973 BMW 3.3 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,295 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3.3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3.3 (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (130 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3.3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1973 BMW 3.3 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 1973 BMW 3.3. 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, 1973 BMW 3.3 (289 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3.3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 1973 BMW 3.3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 BMW 3.3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1973 BMW 3.3 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 3.3 | 323 |
Year Released | 1973 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3295 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 130 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 289 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2510 mm |