1999 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 BMW 318
To start off, 2012 BMW 318 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 318 (143 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 626. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 318 weights approximately 215 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 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 2012 BMW 318. 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 318 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 626. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 318 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 318 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 626 | 318 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1520 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 57 L |
