1998 BMW 320 vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 6 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1998 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 320 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 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Mazda 6 (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 164 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 8.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 64 L |
