2005 BMW 318 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 16 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2005 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 424 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323.
Because 2005 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 2005 BMW 318. 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, 2005 BMW 318 (281 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
