2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 BMW 730
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 730 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 730 weights approximately 554 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 730 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1996 BMW 730 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1996 BMW 730 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1996 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2793 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1746 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2950 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 90 L |
