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 @ 6500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 BMW 325. (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 16.7:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.2 seconds | 7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
