1971 BMW 3 vs. 1994 Mazda 626
To start off, 1994 Mazda 626 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1994 Mazda 626. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 122 kg more than 1994 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Mazda 626, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Mazda 626. (172 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 1994 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 21.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1258 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |
