1981 BMW 745 vs. 1994 Mazda 323
To start off, 1994 Mazda 323 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 745 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 745 (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1994 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 745 should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 745 weights approximately 372 kg more than 1994 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 745 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 745. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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 745 (380 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 745 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 745 | 1994 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 745 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
