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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (79 HP @ 5700 RPM). 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 530 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 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (128 Nm @ 3500 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 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 50 L |
