1997 BMW 316 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1997 BMW 316. (101 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 316 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3.
Because 1997 BMW 316 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 1997 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 3, 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, 1997 BMW 316 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 316 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 316 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1594 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |
