1990 BMW 316 vs. 2011 Mazda 3

To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 21 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1990 BMW 316. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 220 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, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 316. (141 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 316. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 316 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 316 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1990 BMW 316 2011 Mazda 3
Make BMW Mazda
Model 316 3
Year Released 1990 2011
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 2000 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 100 HP 148 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 141 Nm 183 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 4500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1080 kg 1300 kg
Vehicle Length 4330 mm 4590 mm
Vehicle Width 1650 mm 1755 mm
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1471 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2639 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 55 L