2004 BMW 535 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2004 BMW 535 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 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 535 (268 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (110 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2004 BMW 535 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 535. 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 535 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (126 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2004 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 535 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 535 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
