2008 BMW 330 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 342 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 (390 Nm) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 330 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2926 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1253 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
