2003 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 251 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2003 BMW M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (300 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW M3 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | M3 | 3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 240 HP | 0 HP |
Torque | 300 Nm | 146 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 83.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 183 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1442 kg | 1191 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 55 L |