2008 BMW 525 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 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 525 weights approximately 380 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 BMW 525 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2008 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 525 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 525 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2000 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1680 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
