2009 BMW 120 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 120 (168 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 120 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 120 weights approximately 225 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 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 (210 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 120 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2009 BMW 120 has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 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 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 120 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 183 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 | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1910 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 55 L |
