2001 BMW M vs. 2008 BMW 523
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 BMW M. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 BMW M would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M (325 HP) has 150 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M weights approximately 95 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. 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, 2001 BMW M (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 BMW M will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523. 2008 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW M has manual transmission. 2001 BMW M will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M | 2008 BMW 523 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M | 523 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3300 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 325 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.3 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.3 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 70 L |
