2007 BMW 530 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 BMW 530 is newer by 1 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), 2007 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 530 weights approximately 500 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 2007 BMW 530 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 530. 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, 2007 BMW 530 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 530 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 530 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2991 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
