2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 BMW 120
To start off, 2010 BMW 120 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 120 weights approximately 715 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW 120 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 2010 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2010 BMW 120 (341 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2010 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2010 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 341 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 90 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 6.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 51 L |
