1974 BMW 3 vs. 2008 Mazda 6
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 34 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, 2008 Mazda 6 (212 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1974 BMW 3. (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 104 kg more than 2008 Mazda 6.
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, 2008 Mazda 6, 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 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 6. (267 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 6. 2008 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2008 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2680 mm |
