2005 BMW 330 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 BMW 330 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (72 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 330 weights approximately 775 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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 330 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 189 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (111 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 330 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 330 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
