2006 BMW 330 vs. 1996 BMW 525
To start off, 2006 BMW 330 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 330 (255 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 BMW 525. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 330 weights approximately 302 kg more than 1996 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 330 will offer significantly more control. 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 330 (298 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 525. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 330 | 1996 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | 525 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1812 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 67 L |
