1975 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 37 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1975 BMW 320. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1975 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 320. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 320. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1975 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1975 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 320 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2639 mm |
