2003 BMW X3 vs. 1978 Mazda 818
To start off, 2003 BMW X3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X3 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 818. (68 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 818. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW X3 weights approximately 960 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda 818. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 BMW X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818. 2003 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda 818 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda 818 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW X3 | 1978 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | 818 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2320 mm |
