1997 Peugeot 406 vs. 2012 BMW 335
To start off, 2012 BMW 335 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW 335 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 335 (320 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (108 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 335 should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 335 weights approximately 255 kg more than 1997 Peugeot 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 BMW 335 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 2012 BMW 335. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2012 BMW 335 (450 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 200 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 335 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Peugeot 406 | 2012 BMW 335 | |
| Make | Peugeot | BMW |
| Model | 406 | 335 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2088 cc | 2979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 320 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1815 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1783 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2810 mm |
