1998 BMW 323 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 323 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 323 | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 94 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |