1978 BMW 320 vs. 1986 Mazda 929
To start off, 1986 Mazda 929 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,953 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mazda 929 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 451 more horse power than 1986 Mazda 929. (190 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1986 Mazda 929. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mazda 929 weights approximately 785 kg more than 1978 BMW 320.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1986 Mazda 929 has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mazda 929 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 320 | 1986 Mazda 929 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 929 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2720 mm |
