1989 BMW 730 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1989 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 730 (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 1989 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 1989 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 BMW 730. (261 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 BMW 730.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 730 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 730 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 261 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
