2008 BMW 316 vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 BMW 316 is newer by 1 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 316 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 316 weights approximately 273 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 2008 BMW 316 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 2008 BMW 316. 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, 2008 BMW 316 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 316 | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 316 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.2 seconds | 11.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
