1990 BMW 320 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1990 BMW 320. (115 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 320 weights approximately 206 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 1990 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1990 BMW 320 (224 Nm) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (187 Nm). This means 1990 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 320 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1236 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
