1998 BMW 318 vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 1,893 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 255 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Roadster has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 318 | Roadster |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1893 cc | 1839 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 140 HP | 157 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 170 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 83 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 85 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1060 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3960 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1690 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1240 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2370 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |