2003 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Mazda 626
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 626. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2001 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 626. (230 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2001 Mazda 626 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | M3 | 626 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2001 |
Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 342 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 350 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |