2005 BMW 530 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 2005 BMW 530. (227 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 530.
Because 2005 BMW 530 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 2005 BMW 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 530. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 530. 2005 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 530 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 530 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 2261 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 257 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Top Speed | 244 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
