2006 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2006 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1998 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW M3 weights approximately 596 kg more than 1998 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, 1998 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 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 231 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 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 1998 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW M3 | 1998 Mazda MX-3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | M3 | MX-3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3244 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 338 HP | 106 HP |
Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 365 Nm | 134 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 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 |