2006 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2006 BMW 318 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 318 (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 318 weights approximately 425 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2, 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 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 318 | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 2 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 71.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
