2001 BMW 320 vs. 1987 Mazda 323
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 704 kg more than 1987 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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 320 (331 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 1987 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 876 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
