1999 BMW 323 vs. 2005 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 323 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 323 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2005 BMW 525. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2005 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 33 kg more than 1999 BMW 323.
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, 2005 BMW 525 (351 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 BMW 323. (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 BMW 323. 1999 BMW 323 has automatic transmission and 2005 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 2005 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 BMW 323 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 323 | 2005 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 351 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1457 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
