1972 BMW 3 vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 31 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 @ 5800 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 314 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
1972 BMW 3 | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 3 | Roadster |
Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1839 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 157 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 271 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2370 mm |