1973 BMW 2004 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 1978 Mazda RX-3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 2004. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 2004 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 BMW 2004 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda RX-3 (100 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1973 BMW 2004. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda RX-3 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 2004. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 2004 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
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, 1973 BMW 2004 (157 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 2004 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 2004 | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 2004 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2320 mm |
