2008 BMW 523 vs. 2005 Porsche 996
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Porsche 996. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Porsche 996 would be higher. At 3,596 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Porsche 996 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Porsche 996 (317 HP) has 142 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Porsche 996 weights approximately 125 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Porsche 996 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 BMW 523. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Porsche 996 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Porsche 996 (370 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Porsche 996 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2005 Porsche 996 | |
| Make | BMW | Porsche |
| Model | 523 | 996 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 317 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2360 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
