1973 BMW 3.3 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3.3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3.3 would be higher. At 3,295 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3.3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3.3 (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3.3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 3.3 weights approximately 310 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 3.3 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 3.3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1973 BMW 3.3 (289 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3.3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 1973 BMW 3.3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 BMW 3.3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3.3 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 3.3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3295 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 289 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 95 L | 55 L |
