2008 BMW 523 vs. 1997 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Skoda Octavia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Skoda Octavia 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 Skoda Octavia. (108 HP @ 4150 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1997 Skoda Octavia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 185 kg more than 1997 Skoda Octavia. 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, 1997 Skoda Octavia, 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 Skoda Octavia (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Skoda Octavia 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 Skoda Octavia has manual transmission. 1997 Skoda Octavia 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 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | BMW | Skoda |
| Model | 523 | Octavia |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2520 mm |
