2003 BMW 545 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 BMW 545 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 4,398 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 BMW 545 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 545 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 545 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 545 weights approximately 765 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 545 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 545. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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 545 (450 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 313 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 545 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 545 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 545 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
