1987 Mazda 626 vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 1987 Mazda 626 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (146 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Mazda 626 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1981 BMW M1.
Because 1981 BMW M1 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 M1. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 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, 1981 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
1987 Mazda 626 | 1981 BMW M1 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 626 | M1 |
Year Released | 1987 | 1981 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3453 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 146 HP | 273 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 330 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4370 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1140 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2570 mm |