2005 BMW M3 vs. 1989 Mazda 626
To start off, 2005 BMW M3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW M3 (320 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 231 more horse power than 1989 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW M3 weights approximately 570 kg more than 1989 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 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, 2005 BMW M3 (337 Nm) has 203 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mazda 626. (134 Nm). This means 2005 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW M3 | 1989 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 1789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 320 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 337 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 77 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2580 mm |
