2008 BMW 323 vs. 1990 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 BMW 323 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,494 cc, 2008 BMW 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 323 (176 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 323 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 520 weights approximately 52 kg more than 2008 BMW 323.
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, 2008 BMW 323 (230 Nm) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm). This means 2008 BMW 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 323 | 1990 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 323 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1991 cc |
| Horse Power | 176 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2770 mm |
