2008 BMW X3 vs. 2012 Mazda 6
To start off, 2012 Mazda 6 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW X3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X3 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 6. (170 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 230 kg more than 2012 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 6, 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 X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 6. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 6. 2012 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW X3 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW X3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 2012 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X3 | 6 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 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 | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 70 L |
