2012 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 BMW 535
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2011 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2011 BMW 535 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2011 BMW 535 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 2011 BMW 535. 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, 2011 BMW 535 (406 Nm @ 1300 RPM) has 261 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2011 BMW 535 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. 2011 BMW 535 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Mazda 3 | 2011 BMW 535 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 3 | 535 |
Year Released | 2012 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1560 cc | 2979 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 406 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2968 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |