1998 BMW 323 vs. 1977 BMW 520
To start off, 1998 BMW 323 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 323 (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1977 BMW 520. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1977 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 285 kg more than 1977 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 BMW 323 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 BMW 520. (160 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 1977 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 520 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 66 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
