2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 BMW 325
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2005 BMW 325. (184 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 325 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2005 BMW 325 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 2005 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Mazda 3 (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 331 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 325. 2005 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2005 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 576 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1640 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 9.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
