2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 BMW 120
To start off, 2011 BMW 120 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 120 (169 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 120 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 120 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 2011 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2011 BMW 120 (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2011 BMW 120 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 120 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1420 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
