2008 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Mazda 3

To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 325 2012 Mazda 3
Make BMW Mazda
Model 325 3
Year Released 2008 2012
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2493 cc 2500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 189 HP 167 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 228 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1495 kg 1383 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4506 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1755 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1471 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2639 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 60 L


 

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