1974 BMW 518 vs. 1991 Mazda 323
To start off, 1991 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 518 (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1991 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 1991 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 518 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1991 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1991 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 518 (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 1991 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 518 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
