2009 BMW 320 vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 BMW 320 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 320 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 320 weights approximately 132 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 (351 Nm) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 320 | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 351 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1253 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
