2008 BMW 318 vs. 1985 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (120 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1985 Mazda 323. (103 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1985 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1985 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 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 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 143 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mazda 323. (137 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1985 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 103 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2410 mm |
