1998 BMW 740 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 BMW 740 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 740 (286 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 740 weights approximately 1028 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 740 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 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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 740 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 303 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 740 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 740 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1968 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3080 mm | 2410 mm |
