1998 BMW 318 vs. 1981 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1981 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 BMW 318 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 323. (79 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1981 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1069 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2370 mm |
