1986 BMW 325 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 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 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1986 BMW 325. (126 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1986 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW 325 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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, 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, 1986 BMW 325 (230 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW 325 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 2258 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1125 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 Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
