1981 BMW 528 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 528 (181 HP) has 107 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 528 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 528 weights approximately 153 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 528 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 528. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 528 (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 528 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 528 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 528 | 323 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2788 cc | 1323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 181 HP | 74 HP |
Torque | 240 Nm | 109 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 71 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1147 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2850 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |