2008 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,246 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (339 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 85 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 M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.2 seconds | 10.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.9 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
