2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 BMW 330
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,991 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 790 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 330 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 2008 BMW 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2008 BMW 330 (500 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2008 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2008 BMW 330 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 330 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2991 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 500 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1600 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
