1996 BMW 540 vs. 1990 Mazda 323
To start off, 1996 BMW 540 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 226 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 540 weights approximately 755 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 540 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 1996 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 1996 BMW 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 326 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323. 1996 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 1990 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1990 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 540 | 1990 Mazda 323 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 540 | 323 |
Year Released | 1996 | 1990 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1720 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 56 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4300 RPM |
Torque | 440 Nm | 114 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2460 mm |