1997 Mazda 323 vs. 2010 BMW 320
To start off, 2010 BMW 320 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. Both 1997 Mazda 323 and 2010 BMW 320 are equipped with a 1,995 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323.
Because 2010 BMW 320 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 2010 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2010 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 323 | 2010 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 320 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2810 mm |
