1998 BMW 323 vs. 2007 BMW 525
To start off, 2007 BMW 525 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1998 BMW 323. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 323 weights approximately 30 kg more than 2007 BMW 525.
Because 2007 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 323. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW 525 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, 2007 BMW 525 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 323. 2007 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 323 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 323 | 2007 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.8 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
