2007 BMW 525 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 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 525 would be higher. At 5,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 525 (216 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 525 weights approximately 112 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 525 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 525. 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 525 (250 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 525 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 525 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5497 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 216 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
