1998 BMW 323 vs. 1996 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (169 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 371 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MX-3, 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 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 323 | 1996 Mazda MX-3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 323 | MX-3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 169 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1059 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4230 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1320 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |