1996 BMW M3 vs. 2007 Mazda 6
To start off, 2007 Mazda 6 is newer by 11 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 122 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 6. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 135 kg more than 2007 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1996 BMW M3 (320 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 6. (165 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2007 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
