1994 BMW M3 vs. 1980 Mazda 323
To start off, 1994 BMW M3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW M3 (281 HP) has 207 more horse power than 1980 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1980 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW M3 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1980 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1994 BMW M3 (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Mazda 323. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW M3 | 1980 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2990 cc | 1490 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 281 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
