2006 BMW 523 vs. 2008 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2008 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 523 would be higher. At 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mazda CX-9 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP) has 98 more horse power than 2006 BMW 523. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 523.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda CX-9, 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 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 523. 2008 Mazda CX-9 has automatic transmission and 2006 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2006 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mazda CX-9 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 523 | 2008 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 523 | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 273 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2880 mm |
