2008 BMW X3 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1989 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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 X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (216 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2460 mm |
