1997 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 6 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 122 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (140 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 2003 Mazda Roadster 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. 2003 Mazda Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2270 mm |
