1980 BMW M5 vs. 2010 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2010 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1980 BMW M5. (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1980 BMW M5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 575 kg more than 1980 BMW M5. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 BMW M5 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 1980 BMW M5. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2010 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 BMW M5. (304 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 BMW M5. 2010 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1980 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1980 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2010 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M5 | 2010 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | M5 | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 218 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1391 kg | 1966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 5075 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
