1992 BMW 332 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 332. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 332 would be higher. At 3,152 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 332 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 332 (317 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 332 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 332 weights approximately 17 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 332 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 1992 BMW 332. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1992 BMW 332 (350 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 332 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1992 BMW 332 has manual transmission. 1992 BMW 332 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 332 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 332 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3152 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 317 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
