2001 BMW M vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (325 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 184 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2001 BMW M.
Because 2001 BMW M 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 M. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW M. (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW M.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3300 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 325 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.3 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.3 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 55 L |
