1998 BMW 325 vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 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 57 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3.
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, 2011 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, 2011 Mazda 3 (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 325. (250 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 325.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 325 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 325 | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1560 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 113 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |