2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 BMW 325
To start off, 2012 BMW 325 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 325 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3.
Because 2012 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 325 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2012 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
