2008 BMW 523 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW M12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW M12 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523.
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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 523 | M12 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2610 mm |
