1988 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Mazda 6
To start off, 2004 Mazda 6 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (220 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (165 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 525 weights approximately 129 kg more than 2004 Mazda 6.
Because 1988 BMW 525 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 1988 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6, 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, 2004 Mazda 6 (260 Nm) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (239 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2004 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 525 | 6 |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2441 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 220 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 239 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
