1980 BMW M5 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M5 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 BMW M5 weights approximately 91 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 BMW M5 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 1980 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1980 BMW M5 (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1980 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M5 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M5 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1391 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
