1996 BMW 325 vs. 2004 Mazda 6
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 8 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1996 BMW 325. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 91 kg more than 1996 BMW 325. 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, 2004 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, 2004 Mazda 6 (260 Nm) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 325. (245 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 325 | 2004 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
