2004 BMW 318 vs. 1990 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 655 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2004 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 1990 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3700 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
