1974 BMW 3 vs. 1999 Mazda 626
To start off, 1999 Mazda 626 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 626. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 153 kg more than 1999 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mazda 626, 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 626. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 1999 Mazda 626 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 3 | 626 |
Year Released | 1974 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2680 mm |