1997 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 320 weights approximately 431 kg more than 1997 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mazda MX-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, 2012 BMW 320 (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda MX-3. (135 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mazda MX-3 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | MX-3 | 320 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1997 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 1250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 1490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4624 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1811 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1429 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 57 L |