2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 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 X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (257 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2012 BMW X3. (240 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW X3.
Because 2012 BMW X3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW X3. (299 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW X3. 2012 BMW X3 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 X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Mazda 3 | 2012 BMW X3 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 3 | X3 |
Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 3000 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 257 HP | 240 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 380 Nm | 299 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | AWD |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4648 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1881 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1675 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |