2006 BMW 550 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 BMW 550 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 4,801 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 BMW 550 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 550. 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 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 550 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 550 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4801 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 14.7 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
