2008 BMW 530 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 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,979 cc, 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 530 weights approximately 311 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 BMW 530 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 530. 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 530 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2008 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 530 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 530 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2000 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1608 kg | 1297 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
