2003 BMW 520 vs. 1988 Plymouth Colt

To start off, 2003 BMW 520 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Plymouth Colt. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Plymouth Colt would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1988 Plymouth Colt. (133 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1988 Plymouth Colt. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1988 Plymouth Colt. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2003 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Plymouth Colt, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2003 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Plymouth Colt. (191 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Plymouth Colt.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW 520 1988 Plymouth Colt
Make BMW Plymouth
Model 520 Colt
Year Released 2003 1988
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 1595 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 167 HP 133 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 191 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 1130 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4040 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 3000 mm 2400 mm