1983 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1983 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 596 kg more than 1983 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 316 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 1983 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7, 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, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (218 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 316 | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 316 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1765 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
