2004 BMW 325 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 BMW 325 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2004 BMW 325. (116 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 325 weights approximately 252 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2004 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 325 (220 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 325 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 187 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2510 mm |
