1998 BMW 316 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 103 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 316 weights approximately 458 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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, 1998 BMW 316 (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323. 1998 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1985 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1985 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 316 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 316 | 323 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1597 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 103 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 940 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |