1994 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 1994 Mazda 323. (145 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 770 kg more than 1994 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 550 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 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 426 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 323. (183 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 323. 2011 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1994 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1994 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1994 Mazda 323 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 323 | 550 |
Year Released | 1994 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |