1973 BMW 2004 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1973 BMW 2004. (97 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 2004. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1973 BMW 2004. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 2004 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 1973 BMW 2004. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 2004. (157 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 2004.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 2004 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 2004 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 97 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2650 mm |
