2006 BMW 120 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 BMW 120 is newer by 2 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 120 weights approximately 612 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 120 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 2006 BMW 120. 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, 2006 BMW 120 (331 Nm) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 2006 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 120 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 120 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.7 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
