1998 BMW 318 vs. 2011 Mazda 6
To start off, 2011 Mazda 6 is newer by 13 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 6 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 6 weights approximately 169 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, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1893 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1315 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1839 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
