1969 BMW 1600 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1969 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1969 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1969 BMW 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1969 BMW 1600. (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1969 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 264 kg more than 1969 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1969 BMW 1600 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 1969 BMW 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1969 BMW 1600 (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1969 BMW 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 BMW 1600 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 1600 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1969 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 996 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 55 L |
