2007 BMW 325 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 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 325 weights approximately 87 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 325 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 325. 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 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 325 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
