2008 BMW X3 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 881 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (300 Nm) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2104 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1880 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.5 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
