1978 BMW M1 vs. 1987 Mazda 323
To start off, 1987 Mazda 323 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 207 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW M1 weights approximately 424 kg more than 1987 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 BMW M1 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 1978 BMW M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 1987 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M1 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 876 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2410 mm |
