1996 BMW 523 vs. 2008 BMW 330
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 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. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 171 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 330 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 330 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, 2008 BMW 330 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2008 BMW 330 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 523 | 330 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 254 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
