1996 BMW 523 vs. 2009 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2009 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 3,727 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (268 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 1996 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda CX-9, 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, 2009 Mazda CX-9 (269 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523. 2009 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2009 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 523 | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 3727 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 269 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 76 L |
