1987 BMW 318 vs. 2001 Mazda 323
To start off, 2001 Mazda 323 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW 318 (114 HP) has 40 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda 323 weights approximately 181 kg more than 1987 BMW 318.
Because 1987 BMW 318 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 1987 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1987 BMW 318 (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 318 | 2001 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2850 mm |
