2007 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2007 BMW 318. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 318 weights approximately 455 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 2007 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 318 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2258 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
