1996 BMW 523 vs. 1997 Nissan 400 R
To start off, 1997 Nissan 400 R is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,768 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Nissan 400 R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Nissan 400 R (400 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 230 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Nissan 400 R should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Nissan 400 R weights approximately 5 kg more than 1996 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Nissan 400 R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Nissan 400 R will offer significantly more control. 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, 1997 Nissan 400 R (471 Nm) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm). This means 1997 Nissan 400 R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 1997 Nissan 400 R | |
| Make | BMW | Nissan |
| Model | 523 | 400 R |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 471 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
