2003 BMW 530 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 530 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (155 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 530 weights approximately 277 kg more than 2013 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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 530 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3. 2003 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 2013 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2013 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 530 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 530 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1303 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.5 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.2 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
