2008 BMW 318 vs. 2001 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2001 Mazda 626. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 318 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2001 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2008 BMW 318 (201 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 2001 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 64 L |
