1997 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 240 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW M3 | 1978 Mazda RX-7 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | M3 | RX-7 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2292 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 105 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 145 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.4:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |