1998 BMW 318 vs. 2013 Mazda 6
To start off, 2013 Mazda 6 is newer by 15 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 2,489 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 6 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda 6 weights approximately 209 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, 2013 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, 2013 Mazda 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 100 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
