1997 BMW M3 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 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 99 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 185 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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (360 Nm) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW M3. (236 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
