1998 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 145 kg more than 1998 BMW 318.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 318 | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 78.4 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1420 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 55 L |