1997 BMW 318 vs. 2005 Mazda 6
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 318 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 6 (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1997 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 6 (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 318 | 2005 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| 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 | 1445 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
