1961 BMW 700 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 BMW 700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 BMW 700 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1961 BMW 700. (38 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1961 BMW 700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 580 kg more than 1961 BMW 700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 BMW 700 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 1961 BMW 700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 BMW 700. (52 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 BMW 700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 BMW 700 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 700 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 697 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 52 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 660 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3540 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2130 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 31 L | 55 L |
