2006 Mazda 6 vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 199 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 6. (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 535 kg more than 2006 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6, 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 6. (270 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 6 | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 6 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2964 cc | 3999 cc |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.7 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 12.4 L/100km | 17.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 63 L |
