1985 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 BMW 328
To start off, 2012 BMW 328 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 328 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 328 weights approximately 769 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 328 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 2012 BMW 328. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 2012 BMW 328 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (107 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 323 | 2012 BMW 328 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 328 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1720 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 107 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2810 mm |
