2006 BMW X3 vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2010 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda 3 weights approximately 23 kg more than 2006 BMW X3.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2010 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (246 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3. 2010 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 246 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 60 L |
