1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 343 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 550 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 2011 BMW M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 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 M3 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
