2009 BMW 740 vs. 1997 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2009 BMW 740 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 3,998 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 740 (302 HP) has 196 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 740 weights approximately 886 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 740 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 2009 BMW 740. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 BMW 740 (390 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-3. 2009 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 740 | 1997 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 740 | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 106 HP |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 88 L | 65 L |
