1992 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1992 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1992 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 172 kg more than 1992 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 518 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 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1992 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1992 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 518 | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 518 | 3 |
| Year Released | 1992 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2650 mm |
