1998 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 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 2,486 cc, 2009 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (169 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 6 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. 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 6, 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 6 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 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 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2486 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 169 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
