1996 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 1997 Mazda RX-7 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 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (197 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1997 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 (320 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (271 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda RX-7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |
