2008 BMW 318 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 17 kg more than 2013 Mazda 3.
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, 2013 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, both vehicles can yield 200 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1378 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
