1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 BMW 125
To start off, 2011 BMW 125 is newer by 22 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 125 weights approximately 274 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.
Because 2011 BMW 125 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 2011 BMW 125. 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, 2011 BMW 125 (270 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2011 BMW 125 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. 2011 BMW 125 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2011 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 125 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 7.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 53 L |
