1999 BMW 328 vs. 1996 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1999 BMW 328 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 328 (193 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW 328 weights approximately 423 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 BMW 328 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 1999 BMW 328. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MX-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, 1999 BMW 328 (279 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 145 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3. 1999 BMW 328 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 328 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 328 | 1996 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 328 | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 65 L |
