1996 BMW 725 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 725 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 BMW 725. (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 725. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 725 weights approximately 485 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 1996 BMW 725 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 1996 BMW 725. 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, 1996 BMW 725 (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 725 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 725 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 725 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2639 mm |
