2008 BMW 330 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2008 BMW 330.
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, 2009 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 (481 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2008 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 330 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2260 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 481 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
