2007 BMW 130 vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2007 BMW 130 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 130 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 130 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 130 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 130 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 130. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 130 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 130 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 130 | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 130 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
