2008 BMW X3 vs. 1999 Mazda 323
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 618 kg more than 1999 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, 1999 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 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 371 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 323. 2008 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1999 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1999 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1999 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.6 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
