2002 BMW 330 vs. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2002 BMW 330. (201 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2002 BMW 330. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 330 weights approximately 142 kg more than 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2002 BMW 330 (410 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. 2002 BMW 330 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 BMW 330 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 330 | 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 330 | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 10.6 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
