2004 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2004 BMW M3 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW M3 (317 HP @ 7250 RPM) has 213 more horse power than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW M3 weights approximately 715 kg more than 1981 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, 2004 BMW M3 (355 Nm) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda RX-7. (145 Nm). This means 2004 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW M3 | 1981 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1775 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
