2008 BMW 523 vs. 1999 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 74 more horse power than 1999 Mazda 626. (101 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1999 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mazda 626 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2008 BMW 523.
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, 1999 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, 2008 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mazda 626. (224 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mazda 626.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1999 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 523 | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 101 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
