1998 BMW 325 vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 325 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 10 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 325 (250 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 325 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 325 | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 83.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1245 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1480 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |