1972 BMW 3 vs. 2006 Mazda 6
To start off, 2006 Mazda 6 is newer by 34 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 3,003 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 6 (216 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 BMW 3 weights approximately 150 kg more than 2006 Mazda 6.
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, 2006 Mazda 6, 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 (272 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 6. (270 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2006 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3003 cc | 2966 cc |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
