2007 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 296 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 778 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 550 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 2011 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 463 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda 3 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4905 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1859 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1463 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2969 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
