1998 BMW 328 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 328. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 328 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 328 (191 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 328 weights approximately 247 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 1998 BMW 328 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 1998 BMW 328. 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, 1998 BMW 328 (280 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 328 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 328 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 328 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
