1982 BMW 323 vs. 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,315 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata (158 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1982 BMW 323. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1982 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 BMW 323 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1982 BMW 323 (205 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (189 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1982 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 BMW 323 | 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2315 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 158 HP |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 102 L | 50 L |
