2009 BMW 523 vs. 1993 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1993 Mazda 323. (74 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1993 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1993 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Mazda 323. (104 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 1993 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 523 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 83.6 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 925 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
