1997 BMW S3 vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. 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 101 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (159 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 237 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 2003 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 BMW S3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 will offer significantly more control. 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 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (205 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6. 2003 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 1997 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1997 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW S3 | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | S3 | 6 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2261 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 260 HP | 159 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 205 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.6:1 |
Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 189 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1605 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |