2008 BMW 323 vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2012 Mazda CX-7. (161 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda CX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 96 kg more than 2008 BMW 323.
Because 2008 BMW 323 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 2008 BMW 323. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7, 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, 2008 BMW 323 (230 Nm) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda CX-7. (218 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda CX-7. 2012 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 323 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1586 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 62 L |
