2008 BMW 330 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 439 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 330 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 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2008 BMW 330 (300 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 330 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 182 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.3 seconds | 11 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
