2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 5 kg more than 2011 BMW 325.
Because 2011 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 2011 BMW 325. 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, 2011 BMW 325 (271 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2494 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |
