1998 BMW 320 vs. 2011 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2011 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 13 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda CX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (170 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 218 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, 2011 Mazda CX-7, 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 CX-7 (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2011 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2169 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1718 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 69 L |
