1994 BMW 520 vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1994 BMW 520. (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1994 BMW 520.
Because 1994 BMW 520 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 1994 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 520 | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 520 | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
