2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 145 kg more than 2011 BMW 325.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2011 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
