2011 Mazda 3 vs. 2004 BMW 320
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 320 weights approximately 87 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 2004 BMW 320 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 2004 BMW 320. 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda 3 | 2004 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 320 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4506 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 63 L |
