1981 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 BMW 328
To start off, 2012 BMW 328 is newer by 31 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 328 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 177 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 328 weights approximately 885 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, 2012 BMW 328 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 192 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mazda 323 | 2012 BMW 328 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 328 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1069 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 79 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2810 mm |
