1996 BMW 523 vs. 2008 BMW 325
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 12 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. Both 1996 BMW 523 and 2008 BMW 325 are equipped with a 2,494 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 30 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 2008 BMW 325 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, 2008 BMW 325 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, both vehicles can yield 245 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2008 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 523 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
