1978 Mazda 626 vs. 2012 BMW M5
To start off, 2012 BMW M5 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M5 (560 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 481 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (79 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 BMW M5 (680 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 538 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (142 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 2012 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 1978 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1978 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mazda 626 | 2012 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 626 | M5 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 79 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 680 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1892 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1455 mm |
