1959 Berkeley QB vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 50 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Berkeley QB. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Berkeley QB would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 126 more horse power than 1959 Berkeley QB. (49 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1959 Berkeley QB. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 1109 kg more than 1959 Berkeley QB. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1959 Berkeley QB, 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, 2009 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Berkeley QB. (61 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Berkeley QB.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Berkeley QB | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Berkeley | BMW |
| Model | QB | 523 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 692 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 381 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1990 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 25 L | 70 L |
