1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 15 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 3 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 3 Series (227 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 3 Series weights approximately 397 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 2013 BMW 3 Series 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 2013 BMW 3 Series. 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 1998 Mazda 323 has automatic transmission and 2013 BMW 3 Series has manual transmission. 2013 BMW 3 Series will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mazda 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.7 :1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1128 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1395 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
