2005 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2012 BMW 320 (380 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (225 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda 3 | 2012 BMW 320 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 3 | 320 |
Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 182 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 225 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4624 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1811 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1384 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |