2011 Mazda CX-9 vs. 2010 BMW 323
To start off, 2011 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2010 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2010 BMW 323 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2010 BMW 323. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2010 BMW 323.
Because 2010 BMW 323 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 2010 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mazda CX-9, 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 CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 BMW 323. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 BMW 323. 2011 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 2010 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2010 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda CX-9 | 2010 BMW 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | CX-9 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2010 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3700 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 366 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5085 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1935 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1727 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2875 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 60 L |
