1996 BMW 332 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 178 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 335 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 332 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 332. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1996 BMW 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 332 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1998 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
