2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 BMW 318
To start off, 2004 BMW 318 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2004 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 235 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3.
Because 2004 BMW 318 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2004 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2004 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2004 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 7.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
