1986 BMW M3 vs. 2002 Mazda 6
To start off, 2002 Mazda 6 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 6. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1986 BMW M3.
Because 1986 BMW M3 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 1986 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda 6, 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, 1986 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 6. (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 BMW M3 | 2002 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2680 mm |
