1998 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (115 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 318 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 318 | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.3:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1260 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |