2012 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 BMW 730
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 730 (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 730 weights approximately 362 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 1998 BMW 730 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 1998 BMW 730. 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, 1998 BMW 730 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 1998 BMW 730 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. 1998 BMW 730 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mazda 3 | 1998 BMW 730 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 730 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1383 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4506 mm | 5130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2940 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 90 L |
