1971 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Mazda BT-50
To start off, 2009 Mazda BT-50 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 57 more horse power than 2009 Mazda BT-50. (123 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda BT-50. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda BT-50 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
Because 2009 Mazda BT-50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1971 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda BT-50 will offer significantly more control. 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 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda BT-50. (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda BT-50.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2009 Mazda BT-50 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | BT-50 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2606 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 3010 mm |
