2004 Mazda 2 vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 347 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 2. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 2 weights approximately 130 kg more than 2012 BMW M3.
Because 2012 BMW M3 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 2012 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 2, 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 2. (160 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 2 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 2 | M3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 160 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15 seconds | 4.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.7 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 63 L |
