2004 BMW 535 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 535 (268 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 535 weights approximately 1020 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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 535 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 378 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2004 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 535 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 535 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1998 cc |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 139 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
