1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2012 BMW 525
To start off, 2012 BMW 525 is newer by 14 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), 2012 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 525 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323.
Because 2012 BMW 525 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 2012 BMW 525. 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, 2012 BMW 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 288 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2012 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 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 | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
