2003 BMW 320 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 BMW 320. (142 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 320 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2011 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, 2011 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 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 320 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 320 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 320 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 320 | 3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |