1997 BMW 318 vs. 2007 Mazda 6
To start off, 2007 Mazda 6 is newer by 10 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda 6 (212 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 325 kg more than 2007 Mazda 6.
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, 2007 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, 2007 Mazda 6 (267 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
