1978 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,261 cc, 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1978 BMW 520. (135 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 520.
Because 1978 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 1978 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 520. (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1978 BMW 520 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 520 | 3 |
Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2261 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 257 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 94 mm |
Top Speed | 204 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |