1990 BMW M3 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,467 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW M3 (238 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW M3 weights approximately 114 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.5 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
