1971 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Mazda 6
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 37 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 44 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 6. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 4 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 2008 Mazda 6, 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 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 6. (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2008 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2261 cc |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 214 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 | 1384 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 64 L |
