1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mazda 6
To start off, 2011 Mazda 6 is newer by 15 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 70 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 6. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 6 weights approximately 4 kg more than 1996 BMW M3.
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, 2011 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 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 6. (226 Nm). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1839 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
