1988 BMW 520 vs. 2001 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2001 Skoda Octavia is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 520 (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2001 Skoda Octavia. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2001 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2001 Skoda Octavia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 520 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 1988 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Skoda Octavia, 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, 2001 Skoda Octavia (214 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 520. (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 2001 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | BMW | Skoda |
| Model | 520 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
