1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2006 BMW 320
To start off, 2006 BMW 320 is newer by 17 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 320 (149 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2006 BMW 320 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 2006 BMW 320. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2006 BMW 320 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2006 BMW 320 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. 2006 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2006 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2770 mm |
