2009 BMW 120 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 BMW 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 120 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 120 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (154 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 2009 BMW 120 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 2009 BMW 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2009 BMW 120 (200 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 120 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 120 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 120 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
