2008 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 2,171 cc, 2008 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 320 (168 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (138 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 4 kg more than 1997 Peugeot 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 320 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 2008 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406, 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, 2008 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Peugeot 406. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Peugeot 406. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1997 Peugeot 406 has manual transmission. 1997 Peugeot 406 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 320 | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 320 | 406 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1997 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
