1984 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2008 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,258 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1984 BMW 318. (103 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1984 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 191 kg more than 1984 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 BMW 318 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 1984 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-7, 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, 2008 Mazda CX-7 (350 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 BMW 318. (145 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 BMW 318. 2008 Mazda CX-7 has automatic transmission and 1984 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1984 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda CX-7 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 BMW 318 | 2008 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2258 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |
