2006 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 BMW 525 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,999 cc, 2006 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 525 (251 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 525 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 525 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2999 cc | 1999 cc |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
