2006 BMW M3 vs. 1992 Mazda 323
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (355 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1992 Mazda 323. (185 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1992 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 340 kg more than 1992 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 Mazda 323 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323 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, 2006 BMW M3 (370 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 Mazda 323. (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 1992 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 355 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.9 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
