1998 BMW 330 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 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 330 (181 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 330 weights approximately 307 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 330 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 330. 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 330 (390 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 330 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:
1998 BMW 330 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 330 | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2995 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 181 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 390 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Consumption | 5.5 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 9.6 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |