1992 BMW 540 vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2003 Mazda 2 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 540. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 540 would be higher. At 3,980 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 540 weights approximately 570 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 540 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 1992 BMW 540. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2, 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 5100 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 540 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3980 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1650 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 45 L |
