2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 BMW 740
To start off, 2012 BMW 740 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 740 weights approximately 808 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2012 BMW 740 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 740. 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 740 (447 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 301 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2012 BMW 740 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 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 BMW 740 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 740 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 315 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1202 kg | 2010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5215 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1902 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1479 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 82 L |
