2004 BMW 318 vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 BMW 318 (113 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 2. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 BMW 318 weights approximately 424 kg more than 2012 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2004 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 2. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 BMW 318 | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 2 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1993 cc | 1500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1470 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2489 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 43 L |
