2003 BMW M3 vs. 2008 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2008 Mazda CX-7 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 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2008 Mazda CX-7. (244 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda CX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2008 Mazda CX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mazda CX-7 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 BMW M3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-7 will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 350 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2008 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 2003 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2003 BMW M3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 2008 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 8.4 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 17.8 L/100km | 14.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.4 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 69 L |
