1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 BMW Z8
To start off, 2001 BMW Z8 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 4,939 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 BMW Z8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW Z8 (400 HP) has 326 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW Z8 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z8 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2001 BMW Z8 (500 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 396 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2001 BMW Z8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2001 BMW Z8 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | Z8 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 4939 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 400 HP |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 73 L |
