1995 BMW S3 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 S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 255 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 570 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW S3 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 S3. 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 S3 (260 Nm) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (124 Nm). This means 1995 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | S3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1349 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 83 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
