2007 BMW 130 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 130. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 130 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 130 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 130 (266 HP @ 6650 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 130 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2007 BMW 130 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 130. 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 130 (427 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 130 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 130 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 130 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 266 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6650 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
