2008 BMW 330 vs. 1996 BMW 520
To start off, 2008 BMW 330 is newer by 12 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1996 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 330 weights approximately 220 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 2008 BMW 330 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 BMW 520. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 BMW 330 (500 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 330 | 1996 BMW 520 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 330 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 500 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 242 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1716 kg | 1496 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 70 L |
