1996 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 16 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 171 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 5. (157 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW M3 weights approximately 82 kg more than 2012 Mazda 5. 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, 2012 Mazda 5, 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 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 5. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW M3 | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3169 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
