1999 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 323 weights approximately 47 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 323 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 1999 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3, 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, 1999 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW 323 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 323 | 3 |
Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |