1989 BMW 850 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 BMW 850 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1989 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 BMW 850 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 155 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 BMW 850 weights approximately 307 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 1989 BMW 850 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 850. 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, 1989 BMW 850 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1989 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 BMW 850 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 850 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4988 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 296 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4100 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1792 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
