1996 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Mazda BT-50
To start off, 2012 Mazda BT-50 is newer by 16 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 2,953 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda BT-50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2012 Mazda BT-50. (154 HP @ 3200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda BT-50.
Because 2012 Mazda BT-50 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda BT-50 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, 2012 Mazda BT-50 (380 Nm @ 180 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda BT-50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2012 Mazda BT-50 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 523 | BT-50 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2953 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 180 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 96.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 102 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3010 mm |
