2004 BMW M3 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-2
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-2 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 589 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-2. 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, 2004 BMW M3 (350 Nm) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-2. (157 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1978 Mazda RX-2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | RX-2 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1549 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2480 mm |
