1973 BMW 3 vs. 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1973 BMW 3. (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1973 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 weights approximately 202 kg more than 1973 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2010 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1472 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
