1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 38 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 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 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, 1971 BMW 3 (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 3 | 3 |
Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 255 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2650 mm |