1997 BMW 318 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1997 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1997 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 318 weights approximately 148 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
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, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 BMW 318. (168 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1997 BMW 318 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 318 | 3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 2000 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 | 168 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 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 | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1297 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |