1983 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,691 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1983 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1983 BMW 525 (240 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 1983 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 525 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2691 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 200 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 | 1500 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
