2012 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 BMW 125
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 125. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 BMW 125 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2009 BMW 125 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 125. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 125. (271 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 125. 2009 BMW 125 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 125 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Mazda 3 | 2009 BMW 125 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 125 |
| Year Released | 2012 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 360 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 53 L |
