2000 BMW 320 vs. 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 2000 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2000 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW 320 weights approximately 146 kg more than 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3.
Because 2000 BMW 320 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 2000 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 BMW 320. (211 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 BMW 320. 2000 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 BMW 320 | 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
