1989 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 BMW Z4
To start off, 2012 BMW Z4 is newer by 23 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW Z4 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW Z4 weights approximately 544 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 2012 BMW Z4 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 2012 BMW Z4. 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, 2012 BMW Z4 (406 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 242 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2012 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 2012 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 406 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4239 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1791 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2497 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
