2008 BMW 328 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 328. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 328 would be higher. At 3,001 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 328 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 328 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 328 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 328 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 328 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 328 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 328 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 328 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 328 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3001 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |
