1988 BMW 520 vs. 2008 Proton Arena
To start off, 2008 Proton Arena is newer by 20 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 520 weights approximately 535 kg more than 2008 Proton Arena.
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, 2008 Proton Arena, 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, 1988 BMW 520 (174 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Proton Arena. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Proton Arena. 1988 BMW 520 has automatic transmission and 2008 Proton Arena has manual transmission. 2008 Proton Arena will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1988 BMW 520 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 520 | 2008 Proton Arena | |
| Make | BMW | Proton |
| Model | 520 | Arena |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1468 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.5 seconds | 13.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1570 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.9 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 50 L |
