2003 Mazda 6 vs. 2011 BMW 520
To start off, 2011 BMW 520 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 520 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (159 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 520 weights approximately 185 kg more than 2003 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda 6 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 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, 2011 BMW 520 (270 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (205 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 2011 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 6 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 205 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 84 mm |
| Top Speed | 189 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.3 seconds | 8.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 1790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4907 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1462 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2968 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
