2006 BMW 320 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (146 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 320 weights approximately 220 kg more than 2013 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2013 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 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 320 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
