1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 13 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323.
Because 2011 BMW 520 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 2011 BMW 520. 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, 2011 BMW 520 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 218 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2011 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
