2003 BMW 520 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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 520 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
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, 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 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2003 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 520 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 520 | 3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1598 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 0 HP |
Torque | 210 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.5 seconds | 11.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1700 kg | 1180 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |