1981 BMW 525 vs. 1974 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 1981 BMW 525 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1974 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 525 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1974 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW 525 weights approximately 170 kg more than 1974 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1981 BMW 525 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 1974 Mazda RX-4 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 525 | RX-4 |
Year Released | 1981 | 1974 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2616 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1670 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2520 mm |