2008 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (230 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 318. (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 219 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 11.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
