1988 Mazda 323 vs. 2005 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 525 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 620 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2005 BMW 525 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323. 2005 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1988 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1988 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Mazda 323 | 2005 BMW 525 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 323 | 525 |
Year Released | 1988 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 66 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 101 Nm | 351 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1850 mm |