2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 67 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 BMW 523 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 2006 BMW 523. 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 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 523. 2006 BMW 523 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. 2006 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2006 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.5 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
