2008 BMW X5 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 X5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW X5 would be higher. At 4,398 cc, 2008 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X5 (328 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X5 weights approximately 808 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 X5 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 X5. 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 X5 (440 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X5 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | X5 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4398 cc | 2500 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 328 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 440 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2191 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
