1998 BMW 325 vs. 2009 Mazda 5
To start off, 2009 Mazda 5 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 2,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 5 (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 BMW 325. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 325 weights approximately 18 kg more than 2009 Mazda 5.
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 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 325 (220 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 5. (185 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 5.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 325 | 2009 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 325 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1416 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
