2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 BMW 316
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 BMW 316. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 316 weights approximately 140 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 2004 BMW 316 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 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 316. (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 316. 2004 BMW 316 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 316 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 2004 BMW 316 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 196 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
