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 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 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 569 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 four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1989 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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 (270 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 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 | 1840 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.2 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1615 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 63 L |
