1984 BMW 323 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 29 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 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (165 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1984 BMW 323. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 3 weights approximately 293 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.
Because 1984 BMW 323 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 1984 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3, 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, 2013 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 323. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 323 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2314 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.8 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2640 mm |
