2004 BMW 530 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 BMW 530 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,924 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 530 (228 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 530 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 530 (290 Nm) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm). This means 2004 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 530 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 530 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2924 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
