1975 BMW 315 vs. 2008 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 Mazda 2 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 315. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 315 would be higher. At 1,574 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 BMW 315 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 2 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1975 BMW 315. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 315. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 BMW 315 weights approximately 44 kg more than 2008 Mazda 2.
Because 1975 BMW 315 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 1975 BMW 315. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 2, 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, 2008 Mazda 2 (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 315. (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 315.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 315 | 2008 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 315 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1574 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 154 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2500 mm |
