1981 BMW 518 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 1985 Mazda 323 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,766 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mazda 323 (103 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 518 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323.
Because 1981 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 1981 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1981 BMW 518 (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 518 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 518 | 323 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 90 HP | 103 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.1 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2410 mm |