2009 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Mazda 626
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 318 (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1997 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 318 | 1997 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | 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 | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2620 mm |
