2009 BMW M3 vs. 1999 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 626 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 300 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 626. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 375 kg more than 1999 Mazda 626. 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, 1999 Mazda 626, 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 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 626. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1999 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
