2003 BMW 520 vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 345 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 520 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2620 mm |
