1998 BMW 316 vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 316 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 316 | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 106 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |