1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2004 BMW 645
To start off, 2004 BMW 645 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 BMW 645 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 645 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 645 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 645 weights approximately 710 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 645 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 2004 BMW 645. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 BMW 645 (451 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 289 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 645 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2004 BMW 645 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 645 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 4398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 328 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 451 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
