1998 BMW 318 vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 9 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 1998 BMW 318 has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.2 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
