2007 BMW 320 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 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 320 (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 2007 BMW 320 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 320. 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, 2007 BMW 320 (331 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2007 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 320 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 331 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
