1988 BMW 316 vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,183 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (182 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1988 BMW 316. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 270 kg more than 2009 Mazda 6.
Because 1988 BMW 316 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 1988 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6, 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, 2009 Mazda 6 (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 316. (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 316 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2183 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 94 mm |
| Top Speed | 177 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.6 seconds | 8.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
