1999 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 118 (170 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 626. (101 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 118 weights approximately 30 kg more than 1999 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 118 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 2012 BMW 118. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Mazda 626, 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 BMW 118 (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 626. (224 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mazda 626 | 2012 BMW 118 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 626 | 118 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4324 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1421 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 51 L |
