2004 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 320 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 320 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 320. 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, 2004 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 320 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
