1985 BMW 324 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 27 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1985 BMW 324. (85 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1985 BMW 324.
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, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 BMW 324. (152 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 324 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
