2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 BMW 650
To start off, 2012 BMW 650 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 650 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 650 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 252 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 650 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 650 weights approximately 830 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 2012 BMW 650 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 650. 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 650 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 427 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 650 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 650 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 650 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 609 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 2055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4894 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1894 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1369 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2855 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
