2007 BMW 130 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 130. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 130 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 130 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 130 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 2007 BMW 130 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 2007 BMW 130. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 130. (315 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 130.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 130 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 130 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
