2007 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2007 BMW 318 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 318 (120 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (74 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 318 weights approximately 358 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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, 2007 BMW 318 (280 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW 318 | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1323 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 74 HP |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 71 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1147 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.6 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 55 L |
