1988 BMW 730 vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,984 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1988 BMW 730. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 730.
Because 1988 BMW 730 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 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 730. (260 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 730 | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 730 | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2984 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
