2001 BMW M3 vs. 1974 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 745 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-3. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 367 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1974 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1962 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
