1984 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,314 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1984 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 49 kg more than 1984 BMW 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1984 BMW 323 (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1984 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
1984 BMW 323 | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 323 | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2314 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 205 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2329 mm |