2008 BMW 523 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 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 8 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 110 kg more than 2008 BMW 523.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. 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, 2008 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 523 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 523 | 3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 167 HP |
Torque | 230 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |