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 44 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 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. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 254 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
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 47 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 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 | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4510 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 |
