1995 BMW S3 vs. 2011 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2011 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 16 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 2011 Mazda CX-9. (273 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda CX-9. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 239 kg more than 1995 BMW S3.
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, 2011 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2011 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 BMW S3. (260 Nm). This means 2011 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 BMW S3. 2011 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW S3 | 2011 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | S3 | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1964 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5085 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2875 mm |
