1987 BMW Z1 vs. 2012 Mazda 5
To start off, 2012 Mazda 5 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 5. (157 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 5 weights approximately 318 kg more than 1987 BMW Z1.
Because 1987 BMW Z1 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 1987 BMW Z1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1987 BMW Z1 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 5. (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 5. 2012 Mazda 5 has automatic transmission and 1987 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1987 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 BMW Z1 | 2012 Mazda 5 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | Z1 | 5 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1568 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4585 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1615 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2751 mm |
