1997 BMW Z3 vs. 1989 Mazda 323
To start off, 1997 BMW Z3 is newer by 8 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 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW Z3 (333 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 323. (161 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW Z3 weights approximately 218 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 1997 BMW Z3 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 1997 BMW Z3. 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, 1997 BMW Z3 (355 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 323. (216 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW Z3 | 1989 Mazda 323 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | Z3 | 323 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1989 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3245 cc | 1840 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 333 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 355 Nm | 216 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 85 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1393 kg | 1175 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4040 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2460 mm |