2002 BMW 318 vs. 2006 Mazda 2
To start off, 2006 Mazda 2 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 318 weights approximately 147 kg more than 2006 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 2, 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, 2002 BMW 318 (175 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 318 | 2006 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 2 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 45 L |
