1999 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 318 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 5. (113 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 50 kg more than 1999 BMW 318.
Because 1999 BMW 318 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 1999 BMW 318. 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, 2012 Mazda 5 (270 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 318. (180 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 318 | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1440 kg | 1490 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 Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
