2009 BMW M3 vs. 2000 Mazda 323
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 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) has 340 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 508 kg more than 2000 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, 2000 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 291 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 2000 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| 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 | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
