1998 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 is newer by 14 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 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 2 (100 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 244 kg more than 2012 Mazda 2.
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, 2012 Mazda 2, 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, 1998 BMW 318 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 2. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 2. 2012 Mazda 2 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 2 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
