Japan vs Germany — 2005 vs 1987
| Mazdaspeed 6 Grand Touring | M5 E34 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 274 hp | 315 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 266 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,261 cc | 3,535 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.4 sec | 6.3 sec |
| Top Speed | 155 mph | 155 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 14.0 sec | 14.7 sec |
| Weight | 3,600 lbs | 3,638 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,675 mm | 2,761 mm |
| Length | 4,745 mm | 4,720 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 12,254 |
| Original MSRP | $28,995 | $59,500 |
| Value (Excellent) | $20,000 | $75,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 6/10 | 7/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2005 Mazda Mazdaspeed 6 Grand Touring brings quicker acceleration, better value to the table, and the 1987 BMW M5 E34 answers with more power, stronger collectibility. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Japan and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 2005 Mazda Mazdaspeed 6 Grand Touring versus 1987 BMW M5 E34 is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1987 BMW M5 E34 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 315 hp compared to 274 hp, a 41-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Mazda Mazdaspeed 6 uses a Inline-4 DOHC 16-valve MZR DISI turbo displacing 2,261 cc, while the BMW M5 relies on a Inline-6 with 3,535 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2005 Mazda Mazdaspeed 6 Grand Touring edges ahead at 5.4 seconds versus 6.3 seconds. On the collector market, the 1987 BMW M5 E34 commands a significant premium over the 2005 Mazda Mazdaspeed 6 Grand Touring, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1987 BMW M5 E34 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.