1998 BMW 318 vs. 2013 Mazda SPEED3
To start off, 2013 Mazda SPEED3 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 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Mazda SPEED3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda SPEED3 (259 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda SPEED3 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mazda SPEED3 weights approximately 16 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 SPEED3, 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 SPEED3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda SPEED3 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 SPEED3 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | SPEED3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 259 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
