2003 Mazda 323 vs. 2009 BMW 520
To start off, 2009 BMW 520 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 520 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 520 weights approximately 425 kg more than 2003 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2009 BMW 520 (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 323. 2009 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda 323 | 2009 BMW 520 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 323 | 520 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 97 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2890 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |