1992 BMW 318 vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1992 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1992 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 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 1992 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 318 | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 55 L |
