2005 BMW 318 vs. 1996 Mazda RX-01
To start off, 2005 BMW 318 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-01. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-01 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (217 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2005 BMW 318. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 318 weights approximately 200 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-01.
Because 2005 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 2005 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01, 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, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (220 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 318. (167 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-01 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 318.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 BMW 318 | 1996 Mazda RX-01 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | RX-01 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
