1998 BMW 318 vs. 1992 Mazda 323
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mazda 323 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1992 Mazda 323.
Because 1992 Mazda 323 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1992 Mazda 323 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1992 Mazda 323 (235 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 1992 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 1992 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1992 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1992 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 323 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1992 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 218 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.2 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
