1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (194 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (75 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 641 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 325 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 325. 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 325 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 297 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (103 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 955 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 61 L |
