1988 BMW 520 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (131 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1988 BMW 520. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 505 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 1988 BMW 520 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 1988 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 520 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 131 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
