2005 Mazda Marathon vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda Marathon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda Marathon would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 71 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (104 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Marathon.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda Marathon. (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda Marathon. 2006 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda Marathon has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda Marathon will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda Marathon | 2006 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | Marathon | 523 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Van | Station Wagon |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2497 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 10 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 70 L |
