2009 BMW 535 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 BMW 535 is newer by 20 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 2,991 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 535 (268 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 535 weights approximately 657 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 2009 BMW 535 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 535. 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, 2009 BMW 535 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 396 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 535 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 535 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2510 mm |
