2009 BMW X5 vs. 1978 Mazda RX-3
To start off, 2009 BMW X5 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda RX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda RX-3 would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X5 (350 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 250 more horse power than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (100 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda RX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW X5 weights approximately 675 kg more than 1978 Mazda RX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Mazda RX-3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X5 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, 2009 BMW X5 (476 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 341 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda RX-3. (135 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda RX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW X5 | 1978 Mazda RX-3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X5 | RX-3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1963 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 476 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1940 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2320 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 65 L |
