2006 BMW M3 vs. 1995 Mazda MX-3

To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (333 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 511 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 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 2006 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 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, 2006 BMW M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3.

Compare all specifications:

2006 BMW M3 1995 Mazda MX-3
Make BMW Mazda
Model M3 MX-3
Year Released 2006 1995
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3245 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 333 HP 106 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 355 Nm 134 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1570 kg 1059 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4230 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1320 mm
Wheelbase Size 2740 mm 2460 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 65 L