2008 BMW M3 vs. 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 3 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 76 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. (263 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 86 kg more than 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. 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, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW M3. (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 339 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
