2009 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 272 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1997 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda 323, 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 323. (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1400 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
