1974 BMW 3 vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 35 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 53 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 6. (147 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 78 kg more than 2009 Mazda 6. 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, 2009 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 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 6. (186 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 3 | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1999 cc |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 147 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.5 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2730 mm |
