2008 BMW X3 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 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 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 465 kg more than 2011 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 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 X3 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW X3 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | X3 | 3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2000 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 | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |