2001 BMW 320 vs. 1996 BMW 520
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2001 BMW 320. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 9 kg more than 1996 BMW 520.
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, 2001 BMW 320 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520. 2001 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2001 BMW 320 | 1996 BMW 520 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 320 | 520 |
Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1990 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 150 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 66 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 220 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 | 1505 kg | 1496 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |