2008 BMW 325 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
