2004 BMW 118 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 118. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 118 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2004 BMW 118. (127 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 118. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 48 kg more than 2004 BMW 118. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 118 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 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 118. (180 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 118.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 118 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 118 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 127 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
