2008 BMW 530 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 530. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 530 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 530 weights approximately 370 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 530 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 530. 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 530 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 317 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 530 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 530 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
