2008 BMW 135 vs. 2003 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 BMW 135 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 135 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 135 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 323. (97 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 135 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 135 weights approximately 400 kg more than 2003 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 135 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 2008 BMW 135. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2008 BMW 135 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 262 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 323. (145 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 135 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 135 | 2003 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 135 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
