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 (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 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. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 483 kg more than 2009 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, 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 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 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 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 330 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 178 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 12.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1192 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
