2008 BMW 523 vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1997 Peugeot 406. (108 HP @ 4300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1997 Peugeot 406. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 60 kg more than 2008 BMW 523.
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, 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, 1997 Peugeot 406 (250 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523. 2008 BMW 523 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 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | BMW | Peugeot |
| Model | 523 | 406 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2088 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
