2006 BMW 320 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 134 more horse power than 2006 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 320 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 BMW 320 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 320. 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 (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 320. (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW 320 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 320 | 3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2261 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 282 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 576 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1485 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 9.9 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |