1997 BMW S3 vs. 1997 Mazda Xedos 9
To start off, both 1997 BMW S3 and 1997 Mazda Xedos 9 were released in the same year (1997). Therefore the support and the availability on parts for both vehicles should be relatively similar. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1997 Mazda Xedos 9. (165 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda Xedos 9. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda Xedos 9 weights approximately 92 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1997 BMW S3 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 S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda Xedos 9, 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 S3 (330 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda Xedos 9. (212 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda Xedos 9.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1997 Mazda Xedos 9 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | S3 | Xedos 9 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
