1992 BMW 540 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 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 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 540 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 540 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 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, 1992 BMW 540 (400 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1992 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 540 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 540 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3982 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
