1988 BMW 525 vs. 1995 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1995 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,441 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 525 (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 546 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-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 525 (239 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3. 1988 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1995 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1995 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 1995 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 525 | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2441 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
