1981 BMW 525 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1981 BMW 525.
Because 1981 BMW 525 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 1981 BMW 525. 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 @ 1800 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 525 | 3 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2184 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 16.3:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 9.5 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1465 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 5.4 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |