1988 BMW 520 vs. 2003 Mazda Tribute

To start off, 2003 Mazda Tribute is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 520 (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (122 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Tribute. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 215 kg more than 1988 BMW 520.

Because 2003 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Tribute will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Mazda Tribute (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Tribute has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Tribute will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1988 BMW 520 2003 Mazda Tribute
Make BMW Mazda
Model 520 Tribute
Year Released 1988 2003
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1989 cc 1997 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 129 HP 122 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 174 Nm 175 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 84.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 66 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 202 km/hour 166 km/hour
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1570 kg 1785 kg
Vehicle Length 4780 mm 4400 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1720 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2710 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.9 L/100km 9.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 57 L