1988 BMW 535 vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 535 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2010 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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 535 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3. 2010 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 535 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 535 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 535 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1530 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
