2007 BMW 120 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 120 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 120 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW 120. 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, 2007 BMW 120 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 120 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 120 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1440 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
