1990 BMW 316 vs. 1994 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1994 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,845 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda MX-3 (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 83 kg more than 1990 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW 316 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 1990 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 Mazda MX-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, 1994 Mazda MX-3 (157 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1994 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 316 | 1994 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 316 | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1845 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1163 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2460 mm |
