1990 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Mazda 2
To start off, 2012 Mazda 2 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 525 (185 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 2. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 525 weights approximately 529 kg more than 2012 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 2, 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, 1990 BMW 525 (240 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 2. (133 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 2. 2012 Mazda 2 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 2 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 525 | 2012 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 525 | 2 |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1046 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1475 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2489 mm |
