1980 BMW 316 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1980 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1980 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 BMW 316 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 1980 BMW 316. 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (216 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1980 BMW 316 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 316 | 323 |
Year Released | 1980 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 85 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |