2004 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 BMW 325 is newer by 7 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 325 weights approximately 280 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 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, 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, 2004 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
2004 BMW 325 | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 325 | 323 |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 142 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1215 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4250 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |