1986 BMW 325 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (126 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 325 weights approximately 40 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 1986 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1986 BMW 325 (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
