1996 BMW 325 vs. 2002 BMW 520
To start off, 2002 BMW 520 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 168 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 520 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1996 BMW 325.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1996 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 BMW 520. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 325 | 2002 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2170 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1810 mm |
