2009 BMW 318 vs. 1990 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 318 (127 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 323. (56 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 525 kg more than 1990 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2009 BMW 318 (181 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 323. (114 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 318 | 1990 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1720 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 56 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
