1996 BMW 325 vs. 2001 Mazda 6
To start off, 2001 Mazda 6 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 325 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 6. (139 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 325 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2001 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1996 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 325 | 2001 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
