1996 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-7 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 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2009 Mazda CX-7. (244 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda CX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 408 kg more than 2009 Mazda CX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda CX-7 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-7 will offer significantly more control. 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-7 (350 Nm) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (305 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2009 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2009 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2258 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1588 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
