1998 BMW 325 vs. 2005 Mazda 6
To start off, 2005 Mazda 6 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda 6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 236 kg more than 1998 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 325 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 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Mazda 6 (260 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (250 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2005 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1491 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 68 L |
