1976 BMW 630 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 BMW 630. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 BMW 630 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 BMW 630 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 BMW 630 (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1976 BMW 630 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 BMW 630 weights approximately 198 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 BMW 630 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 1976 BMW 630. 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, 1976 BMW 630 (251 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1976 BMW 630 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 BMW 630 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 630 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1458 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |
