2006 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 BMW X3 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW X3 weights approximately 820 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 X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mazda 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 21.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1925 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
