1971 BMW 3 vs. 2012 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 41 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 583 kg more than 1971 BMW 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, 2012 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2012 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2012 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1963 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 5085 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2875 mm |
