1978 BMW M1 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 120 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
Because 1978 BMW M1 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 M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1978 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M1 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 55 L |
