2012 BMW 330 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 BMW 330 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 330 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 2012 BMW 330 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 330. 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, 2012 BMW 330 (540 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 312 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2012 BMW 330 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 330 | 3 |
Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 256 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 540 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4624 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1811 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1384 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 60 L |