2008 Mazda CX-7 vs. 2013 BMW 3 Series
To start off, 2013 BMW 3 Series is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda CX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda CX-7 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 BMW 3 Series is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 BMW 3 Series (296 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2008 Mazda CX-7. (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 BMW 3 Series should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda CX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 BMW 3 Series weights approximately 429 kg more than 2008 Mazda CX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 BMW 3 Series 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 2013 BMW 3 Series. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-7, 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, 2013 BMW 3 Series (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda CX-7. (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 BMW 3 Series will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda CX-7. 2008 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 2013 BMW 3 Series has manual transmission. 2013 BMW 3 Series will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda CX-7 | 2013 BMW 3 Series | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | CX-7 | 3 Series |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2258 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 244 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.2 :1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1191 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1961 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1375 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 7.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 11.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 61 L |
