2003 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 320 weights approximately 273 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 320. 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, 2003 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 320 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 1465 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
