1973 Mazda RX-4 vs. 1999 BMW 325
To start off, 1999 BMW 325 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1973 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1973 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 325 weights approximately 465 kg more than 1973 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 Mazda RX-4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1999 BMW 325 (280 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mazda RX-4 | 1999 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | RX-4 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 2495 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2730 mm |
