2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 BMW 550
To start off, 2012 BMW 550 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 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 550 weights approximately 800 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2012 BMW 550 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 550. 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 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 463 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 BMW 550 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 550 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 400 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1980 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4899 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1464 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
