1975 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1975 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 37 kg more than 1975 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1975 BMW 520 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 520 | 3 |
Year Released | 1975 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 172 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1332 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |