1998 BMW 316 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 BMW 316 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (130 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (103 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316.
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, 1989 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 1989 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 1998 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 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 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 316 | 323 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 130 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 137 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |