2001 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 318 (142 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 318 weights approximately 350 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW 318 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 2001 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 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, 2001 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 318 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
