2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 BMW 316
To start off, 2012 BMW 316 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 316 (116 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 316 weights approximately 366 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 316 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 316. 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 316 (260 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 316 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 316 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 316 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 116 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
