1959 BMW 700 vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,962 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1959 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Mazda RX-3 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1959 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1974 Mazda RX-3 (135 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 BMW 700. (52 Nm). This means 1974 Mazda RX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 700 | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 700 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1962 cc |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2320 mm |
