2009 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 274 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (140 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 307 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 M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 85 mm |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1078 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2510 mm |
