1987 BMW 324 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW 324. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW 324 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 BMW 324 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW 324 (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW 324 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1987 BMW 324.
Because 1987 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 1987 BMW 324. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 BMW 324. (214 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 BMW 324.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW 324 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 324 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 1558 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |
