1996 BMW 520 vs. 2006 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2006 Skoda Octavia is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2006 Skoda Octavia. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2006 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 520 weights approximately 66 kg more than 2006 Skoda Octavia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Skoda Octavia (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 520 | 2006 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | BMW | Skoda |
| Model | 520 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1496 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
