1996 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 13 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 3,169 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (328 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 6. (169 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 507 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 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 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 6. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2488 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
