2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 BMW 128
To start off, 2012 BMW 128 is newer by 6 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 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 128 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 128 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 128 weights approximately 456 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 2012 BMW 128 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 128. 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, 2012 BMW 128 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 128 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2012 BMW 128 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 3 | 128 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2979 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 230 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 89.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 84 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4374 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1412 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2659 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |