1996 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 BMW 128
To start off, 2012 BMW 128 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 128 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 128 (230 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 128 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 128 weights approximately 445 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 2012 BMW 128 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 128. 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, 2012 BMW 128 (271 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 128 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mazda 626 | 2012 BMW 128 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 626 | 128 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 149 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4374 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1748 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1412 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2659 mm |
