1986 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Mazda 6
To start off, 2011 Mazda 6 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 6 (170 HP) has 84 more horse power than 1986 BMW 316. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 6 weights approximately 440 kg more than 1986 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 6, 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, 2011 Mazda 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 BMW 316. (123 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 316 | 2011 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 316 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 123 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1839 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
