2001 BMW 316 vs. 1990 Mazda 626
To start off, 2001 BMW 316 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 316 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1990 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 316 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1990 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW 316 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 2001 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 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, 2001 BMW 316 (150 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mazda 626. (135 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 316 | 1990 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 316 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1789 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
