2008 BMW 523 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 10 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 101 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 435 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 2008 BMW 523 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 523. 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, 2008 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 523 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
