2003 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 590 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 520 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 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 2005 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 520 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
