2006 BMW 523 vs. 1996 BMW 325
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,497 cc, 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1996 BMW 325. (168 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 523 weights approximately 450 kg more than 1996 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1996 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 523 | 1996 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 523 | 325 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2492 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 75 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1835 kg | 1385 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
