1981 BMW 525 vs. 2008 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2008 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525.
Because 1981 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525. 2008 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 2008 Mazda CX-9 | |
Make | BMW | Mazda |
Model | 525 | CX-9 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 273 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 366 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.3:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5080 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1940 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2880 mm |