2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. (250 HP @ 3000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3.
Because 2012 BMW 550 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW 550 will offer significantly more control. 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 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. 2012 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | MazdaSpeed3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2298 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
