1988 BMW 525 vs. 1994 Mazda 323
To start off, 1994 Mazda 323 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1994 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 357 kg more than 1994 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 1988 BMW 525 (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 1994 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 525 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1994 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1218 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
