1985 Mazda 626 vs. 2009 BMW 320
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 626. (102 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 484 kg more than 1985 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Mazda 626, 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, 2009 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 626. (157 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 626. 2009 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mazda 626 | 2009 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 626 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72 mm |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 224 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1036 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
