1996 BMW 525 vs. 2002 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2002 Peugeot 406 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 525 (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2002 Peugeot 406. (134 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2002 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 525 weights approximately 213 kg more than 2002 Peugeot 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 525 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 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Peugeot 406, 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, 1996 BMW 525 (279 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Peugeot 406. (191 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 525 | 2002 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 525 | 406 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 279 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1563 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
