1972 BMW 3 vs. 2000 Mazda 323
To start off, 2000 Mazda 323 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 3 (201 HP) has 127 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 227 kg more than 2000 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Mazda 323, 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2000 Mazda 323 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 3 | 323 |
Year Released | 1972 | 2000 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 74 HP |
Torque | 271 Nm | 109 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 71.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1147 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2850 mm |