1983 BMW 525 vs. 1996 Mazda 626
To start off, 1996 Mazda 626 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 BMW 525 (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 525 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 626, 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, 1983 BMW 525 (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (149 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 1996 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 525 | 626 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 149 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2620 mm |
