1986 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Mazda 323
To start off, 1986 BMW M3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP) has 123 more horse power than 1980 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW M3 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1980 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1986 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda 323. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 1980 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2370 mm |
