1974 BMW 518 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 225 kg more than 1974 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 518 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 16.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
