2005 BMW 330 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 BMW 330 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 330 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 330 weights approximately 459 kg more than 1989 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, 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 330 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323. 2005 BMW 330 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. 2005 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 330 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 330 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 8.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 50 L |
