2006 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW X3 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2006 BMW X3. (228 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 128 kg more than 2006 BMW X3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda CX-9. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW X3. (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW X3 | 2012 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2978 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1963 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 5085 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 9.4 L/100km | 9.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 76 L |
