2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 vs. 2012 BMW 318
To start off, 2012 BMW 318 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2012 BMW 318. (143 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2012 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 318 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3.
Because 2012 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 BMW 318. (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | 2012 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | MazdaSpeed3 | 318 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 263 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 380 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
