1998 BMW 320 vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 14 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 5 (157 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1998 BMW 320. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 74 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, 2012 Mazda 5, 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 320 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 5. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 320 | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 320 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1951 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1476 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 5.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.2 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
