2008 BMW 523 vs. 2002 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 2 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 102 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 2. (73 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 155 kg more than 2002 Mazda 2. 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, 2002 Mazda 2, 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 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 2. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2002 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 523 | 2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 73 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 15.1 seconds |
| 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 | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
