1979 BMW 732 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 732. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 732 would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 BMW 732 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 732 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 732 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 BMW 732 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 BMW 732 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 1979 BMW 732. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 BMW 732. (285 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 BMW 732.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW 732 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 732 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
