2007 BMW 120 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2007 BMW 120 is newer by 9 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 120 weights approximately 245 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 2007 BMW 120 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 2007 BMW 120. 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, 2007 BMW 120 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 120 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 120 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 162 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
