1996 BMW 523 vs. 2008 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2008 Skoda Octavia 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2008 Skoda Octavia. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2008 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2008 Skoda Octavia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Skoda Octavia 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 Skoda Octavia 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 Skoda Octavia (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2008 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | BMW | Skoda |
| Model | 523 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 95.5 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 | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
