1984 BMW 316 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,767 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1984 BMW 316. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1984 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 BMW 316. 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 316. (140 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 316. 1984 BMW 316 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. 1984 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 316 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 316 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1767 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
