2008 BMW 323 vs. 2009 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 323 would be higher. At 3,726 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2008 BMW 323. (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 323 weights approximately 161 kg more than 2009 Mazda CX-9.
Because 2008 BMW 323 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 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 323. (230 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 323. 2009 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2009 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3726 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 76 L |
