1995 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 1996 Mazda 626 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW 318 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1995 BMW 318 (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1995 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 BMW 318 | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
