2004 Mazda 6 vs. 2008 BMW 523
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 6 (220 HP) has 45 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 6 weights approximately 257 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6, 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, 2004 Mazda 6 (257 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 2008 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | 6 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1537 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.7 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 70 L |
