2011 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,493 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 325 weights approximately 385 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2001 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda 3 | 2001 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1685 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
