1995 BMW 317 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1995 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1995 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 317 weights approximately 170 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 1995 BMW 317 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 1995 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1995 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 317 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 317 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
