1986 BMW 325 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW 325 (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 325 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1986 BMW 325 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
