1981 BMW 745 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 745. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 745 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 745 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1981 BMW 745. (252 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 745. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 745 weights approximately 111 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1981 BMW 745 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 745. 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, both vehicles can yield 380 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1981 BMW 745 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 BMW 745 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 745 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 745 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1596 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 55 L |
