2001 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2001 BMW 318 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2001 BMW 318 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 2001 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2001 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2001 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
