2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 BMW 525
To start off, 2012 BMW 525 is newer by 4 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (256 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2012 BMW 525. (217 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 525.
Because 2012 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 2012 BMW 525. 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, 2012 BMW 525 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2012 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 BMW 525 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 256 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
