1996 BMW 332 vs. 2009 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-9 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 3,726 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 332 (323 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2009 Mazda CX-9. (273 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda CX-9. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 332 weights approximately 231 kg more than 2009 Mazda CX-9. 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 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, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 332. (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 332. 2009 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 332 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 332 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 332 | 2009 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 332 | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 3726 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 323 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2880 mm |
