1949 BMW 340 vs. 1972 Mazda 818
To start off, 1972 Mazda 818 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 BMW 340. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 BMW 340 would be higher. At 1,971 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 BMW 340 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mazda 818 (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1949 BMW 340. (53 HP @ 3750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda 818 should accelerate faster than 1949 BMW 340. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 BMW 340 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1972 Mazda 818.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 BMW 340 | 1972 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 340 | 818 |
| Year Released | 1949 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3750 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4610 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2880 mm | 2320 mm |
