2006 BMW M3 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW M3 would be higher. At 3,244 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW M3 (338 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW M3. 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, 2006 BMW M3 (365 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW M3 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M3 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3244 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 338 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 365 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
