2008 BMW 540 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 BMW 540 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 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW 540 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 540 weights approximately 705 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 BMW 540 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 540. 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 540 (440 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 253 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 540 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 2008 BMW 540 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 540 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 540 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 540 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 1996 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.2 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.5 L/100km | 8.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
