1988 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW M3 weights approximately 111 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 M3 (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 227 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 55 L |
