1981 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2011 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2770 mm |
