2003 BMW 520 vs. 2006 BMW 323
To start off, 2006 BMW 323 is newer by 3 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 2,497 cc, 2006 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 323 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2003 BMW 520. (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 2003 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, 2006 BMW 323 (230 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 520. (210 Nm). This means 2006 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW 520 | 2006 BMW 323 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 520 | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 2497 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 229 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.3 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1850 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9 L/100km | 8.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
