2008 BMW 523 vs. 1996 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Peugeot 406. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Peugeot 406 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 1996 Peugeot 406. (88 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1996 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 250 kg more than 1996 Peugeot 406. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 523 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 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Peugeot 406. (130 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Peugeot 406.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1996 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 523 | 406 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1618 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
