2009 BMW 320 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2009 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
