1997 BMW M3 vs. 2010 Mazda 6
To start off, 2010 Mazda 6 is newer by 13 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 2010 Mazda 6. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 6 weights approximately 110 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, 2010 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 71 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 6. (165 Nm). This means 1997 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 6. 2010 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. 2010 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 2010 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1795 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2789 mm |
