2001 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (326 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 345 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 M3 (355 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 326 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 355 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.8 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.9 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
