2006 BMW 550 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 550. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 550 would be higher. At 4,799 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 550 weights approximately 465 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2007 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 247 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (241 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 550 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 550 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 360 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 488 Nm | 241 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.5 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4880 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
