1985 BMW 324 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1985 BMW 324. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 324. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 BMW 324 weights approximately 18 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 1985 BMW 324 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 1985 BMW 324. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 324. (152 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 BMW 324.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 BMW 324 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 324 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 161 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.5 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
