2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2007 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 2007 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW 320 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 2007 BMW 320. 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 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 BMW 320. 2007 BMW 320 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. 2007 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 2007 BMW 320 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 3 | 320 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 256 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 380 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.4 seconds | 9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1395 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2770 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |