1975 BMW 320 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 BMW 320 (109 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 8 kg more than 1975 BMW 320.
Because 1975 BMW 320 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 320. 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, 1975 BMW 320 (157 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1975 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 320 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1598 cc |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
