1995 BMW 520 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 520 weights approximately 303 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1995 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 520 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 520 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
