1999 BMW 330 vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 BMW 330. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 BMW 330 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW 330 (184 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523.
Because 1999 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 BMW 330 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, 1999 BMW 330 (400 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1999 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 BMW 330 | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | 523 |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 184 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
