2006 BMW 730 vs. 1998 Mazda 323

To start off, 2006 BMW 730 is newer by 8 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 2,991 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 730 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 730 weights approximately 890 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 2006 BMW 730 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 2006 BMW 730. 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, 2006 BMW 730 (520 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 387 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW 730 1998 Mazda 323
Make BMW Mazda
Model 730 323
Year Released 2006 1998
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2991 cc 1496 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 88 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 520 Nm 133 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 18.0:1 9.4:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1975 kg 1085 kg
Vehicle Length 5050 mm 4210 mm
Vehicle Width 1910 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 3000 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 88 L 55 L