2003 BMW 320 vs. 1986 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 BMW 320 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 323. (53 HP @ 6800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 320 weights approximately 605 kg more than 1986 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 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, 2003 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Mazda 323. (80 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 320 | 1986 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1071 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2410 mm |
