1995 BMW 317 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW 317 (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW 317 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 317 weights approximately 280 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1995 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 317 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
