2009 BMW 325 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (194 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 325. 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 325 (400 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2003 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 325 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 194 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 228 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.6 seconds | 9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.3 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
