1987 Mazda 626 vs. 2008 BMW Z4
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 626. (146 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 75 kg more than 1987 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 2008 BMW Z4. 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, 2008 BMW Z4 (316 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 626. (182 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 626. 2008 BMW Z4 has automatic transmission and 1987 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1987 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW Z4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Mazda 626 | 2008 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 626 | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 146 HP | 261 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
