2006 BMW 325 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (156 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 515 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 325 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.6 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
