2009 BMW 335 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 BMW 335 is newer by 11 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 335 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 335 (282 HP) has 208 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 335 weights approximately 575 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 2009 BMW 335 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 335. 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, 2009 BMW 335 (580 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 471 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2009 BMW 335 has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 335 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 335 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 335 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 580 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 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
