2008 BMW M3 vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 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 (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 192 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (146 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M3 weights approximately 355 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 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 165 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW M3 | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 146 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
