1987 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 118 (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (116 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 118 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1987 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 118 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 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mazda 626, 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 118 (300 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (184 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 626 | 2012 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 626 | 118 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2183 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1165 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4324 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 51 L |
