1988 BMW 520 vs. 2005 Mazda Drifter

To start off, 2005 Mazda Drifter is newer by 17 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 2,604 cc, 2005 Mazda Drifter is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 520 (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Drifter. (123 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Drifter. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 250 kg more than 2005 Mazda Drifter. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2005 Mazda Drifter 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, 2005 Mazda Drifter 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, 2005 Mazda Drifter (206 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda Drifter will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda Drifter has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda Drifter 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 2005 Mazda Drifter
Make BMW Mazda
Model 520 Drifter
Year Released 1988 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1989 cc 2604 cc
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 129 HP 123 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 4600 RPM
Torque 174 Nm 206 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 8.4:1
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1570 kg 1320 kg
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 3010 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 80 L