1998 BMW 318 vs. 1999 Mazda 626
To start off, 1999 Mazda 626 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mazda 626 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (140 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 626. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda 626 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1998 BMW 318.
Because 1998 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 1998 BMW 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1998 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 626. (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1999 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 318 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 64 L |
