2003 BMW 520 vs. 2004 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2004 Skoda Octavia is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2004 Skoda Octavia. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2004 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW 520 weights approximately 315 kg more than 2004 Skoda Octavia. 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, 2004 Skoda Octavia, 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, both vehicles can yield 210 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2004 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | BMW | Skoda |
| Model | 520 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.5 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
