1997 Mazda 626 vs. 2013 BMW M3
To start off, 2013 BMW M3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW M3 (408 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 319 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW M3 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1997 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 626, 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, 2013 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mazda 626 | 2013 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 626 | M3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 408 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1680 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4618 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1976 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1418 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2761 mm |
