1983 BMW 325 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1983 BMW 325. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1983 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 325 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 325. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 325. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
1983 BMW 325 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 325 | 3 |
Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2261 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 256 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1135 kg | 1485 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |