1988 BMW 524 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 524. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 524 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 524 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 524 (113 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 524 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 524 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 524 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 1988 BMW 524. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1988 BMW 524 (210 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 524 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 524 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 524 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
