2008 BMW 523 vs. 1998 Lancia Kappa

To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Lancia Kappa. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Lancia Kappa would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Lancia Kappa (217 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Lancia Kappa should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1998 Lancia Kappa.

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, 1998 Lancia Kappa, 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, 1998 Lancia Kappa (309 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Lancia Kappa will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW 523 1998 Lancia Kappa
Make BMW Lancia
Model 523 Kappa
Year Released 2008 1998
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1928 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 5 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 175 HP 217 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 309 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2750 RPM
Engine Bore Size 78.8 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 75.7 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 8.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 1455 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4570 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1430 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2710 mm