1998 BMW 330 vs. 1988 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 BMW 330 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 330 (181 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1988 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 330 weights approximately 725 kg more than 1988 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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 330 (390 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 330 | 1988 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 330 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
