1996 Mazda 626 vs. 2011 BMW 550
To start off, 2011 BMW 550 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 550 (400 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 311 more horse power than 1996 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 550 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1996 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 550 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 2011 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda 626, 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, 2011 BMW 550 (609 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 464 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda 626. (145 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda 626. 2011 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1996 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1996 Mazda 626 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mazda 626 | 2011 BMW 550 | |
Make | Mazda | BMW |
Model | 626 | 550 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1840 cc | 4400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 400 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 609 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1980 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4899 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1464 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2968 mm |