2008 BMW 320 vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP) has 87 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (81 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 540 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 2, 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 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (141 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 141 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 45 L |
