3 Series E36 vs 626 IV (GE): which is better?
BMW 3 Series E36 (1990–2000) vs Mazda 626 IV (GE) (1991–1997): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
BMW 3 Series E36
Mazda 626 IV (GE)Specifications
| BMW 3 Series E36 | Mazda 626 IV (GE) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 1990–2000 | 1991–1997 |
| Body | sedan | sedan |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 1.8 (318i) | 2.0 |
| Power, up to | 115 hp | 115 hp |
| Torque, up to | 168 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Gearbox | manual | manual |
| Drive | rear-wheel drive | front-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 433 mm | 4 695 mm |
| Width | 1 698 mm | 1 750 mm |
| Height | 1 393 mm | 1 400 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 700 mm | 2 610 mm |
| Fuel tank | 65 L | 60 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 15 075 ₸ | ≈ 16 475 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
BMW 3 Series E36
Pros
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Age: the last cars were built in 2000, condition is everything
Mazda 626 IV (GE)
Pros
- Sold in all major markets of the region — parts and mechanics available
Cons
- Mazda Z6 / LF / FS engine: oil consumption at high mileage
- Age: the last cars were built in 1997, condition is everything
Engine (Mazda Z6 / LF / FS): oil consumption at higher mileage; carbon buildup and ring coking.
Which one to choose
- 3 Series E36 — if you care more about: wheelbase, fuel tank, kz tax 2026.
- 626 IV (GE) — if you care more about: torque.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: 3 Series E36 or 626 IV (GE)?
3 Series E36: up to 115 hp, 626 IV (GE): up to 115 hp.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: 3 Series E36 — about 15 075 ₸, 626 IV (GE) — about 16 475 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.