2008 BMW 316 vs. 1972 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1972 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mazda RX-4 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2008 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mazda RX-4 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1972 Mazda RX-4.
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, 2008 BMW 316 (176 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 1972 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 316 | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2520 mm |
