1998 BMW 323 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 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 (170 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 307 kg more than 2003 Mazda 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, 2003 Mazda 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 (246 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 323 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 323 | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 160 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 246 Nm | 195 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 74.9 mm | 83.1 mm |
Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1547 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |