2004 Acura TL vs. 1996 BMW 520
To start off, 2004 Acura TL is newer by 8 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 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura TL (270 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura TL weights approximately 83 kg more than 1996 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Acura TL, 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, 2004 Acura TL (324 Nm) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm). This means 2004 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Acura TL | 1996 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | TL | 520 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 324 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 66 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1579 kg | 1496 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4910 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 70 L |
