2001 BMW M3 vs. 1990 Mazda 626
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 626. (116 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 350 kg more than 1990 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 Mazda 626 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2001 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Mazda 626 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, 2001 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 626. (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1990 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2580 mm |
