2004 BMW 535 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 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 535 (268 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 535 weights approximately 530 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 2004 BMW 535 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 535. 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 535 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 377 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2004 BMW 535 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 535 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 535 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 268 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 560 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.5 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
