1983 BMW 320 vs. 1995 Mazda 323
To start off, 1995 Mazda 323 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 320 (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1995 Mazda 323. (82 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda 323 weights approximately 125 kg more than 1983 BMW 320.
Because 1983 BMW 320 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 1983 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 1983 BMW 320 (171 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda 323. (168 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 320 | 1995 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1686 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 82 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 171 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
