1996 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Mazda MPV
To start off, 1997 Mazda MPV is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MPV. (146 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MPV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda MPV weights approximately 134 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 M3 (305 Nm) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MPV. (228 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MPV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1997 Mazda MPV | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | MPV |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1722 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2850 mm |
