1997 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Mazda 6
To start off, 2001 Mazda 6 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 6. (139 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mazda 6 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1997 BMW M3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1997 BMW M3 (236 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 6. (181 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 6. 2001 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2001 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
