2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 BMW 325
To start off, 2010 BMW 325 is newer by 7 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 325 (194 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 325 weights approximately 336 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW 325 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 2010 BMW 325. 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, 2010 BMW 325 (400 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2010 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 238 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 7.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
