1983 BMW 525 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,691 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (130 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525.
Because 1983 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 525 (240 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 1983 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1983 BMW 525 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 525 | 323 |
Year Released | 1983 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2691 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 130 HP |
Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |