1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 1990 Mazda 323
To start off, 1990 Mazda 323 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 2.8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 2.8 would be higher. At 3,293 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 2.8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 2.8 (187 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 2.8 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 2.8 weights approximately 560 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 2.8 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 1974 BMW 2.8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1974 BMW 2.8 (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 2.8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 2.8 | 1990 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 2.8 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3293 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2460 mm |
