1981 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Mazda 5
To start off, 2008 Mazda 5 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 5 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 5 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 5 weights approximately 390 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 520 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 1981 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 5, 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, 2008 Mazda 5 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2008 Mazda 5 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 520 | 5 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 141 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 16.7:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4560 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1620 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2750 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |