2007 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,245 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 171 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW M3 weights approximately 265 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW M3 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3245 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1655 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
