1996 BMW 325 vs. 2012 Honda Accord

To start off, 2012 Honda Accord is newer by 16 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Honda Accord is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Accord (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1996 BMW 325. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Accord should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Accord weights approximately 229 kg more than 1996 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 BMW 325 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 1996 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Honda Accord, 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, 2012 Honda Accord (344 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 325. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2012 Honda Accord will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 325. 2012 Honda Accord has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Honda Accord will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 BMW 325 2012 Honda Accord
Make BMW Honda
Model 325 Accord
Year Released 1996 2012
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2492 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 168 HP 271 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 344 Nm
Torque RPM 3950 RPM 5000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 5-speed automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 1614 kg
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1847 mm