2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (156 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 2005 BMW 318 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 2005 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 318. (201 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 318. 2005 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2005 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 201 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 7.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
