1974 BMW 2.8 vs. 2000 Mazda 323
To start off, 2000 Mazda 323 is newer by 26 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) has 113 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 2.8 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 2.8 weights approximately 393 kg more than 2000 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, 2000 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 186 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 2.8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 2.8 | 2000 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 2.8 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3293 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 295 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2850 mm |
