1996 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2011 Mazda CX-7 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, 2011 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1996 BMW M3. (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 238 kg more than 1996 BMW M3. 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, 2011 Mazda CX-7, 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, 2011 Mazda CX-7 (349 Nm) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW M3. (320 Nm). This means 2011 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW M3. 2011 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. 2011 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2011 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1480 kg | 1718 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 69 L |
