1998 BMW 317 vs. 2006 BMW 530
To start off, 2006 BMW 530 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 530 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 530 weights approximately 395 kg more than 1998 BMW 317. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 530 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 317. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 530 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, 2006 BMW 530 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 317. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 317.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2006 BMW 530 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 317 | 530 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 2999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1750 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2890 mm |
