2008 BMW 523 vs. 2011 Fiat Grande Punto
To start off, 2011 Fiat Grande Punto is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 BMW 523 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) has 57 more horse power than 2011 Fiat Grande Punto. (118 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2011 Fiat Grande Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 15 kg more than 2011 Fiat Grande Punto. 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, 2011 Fiat Grande Punto, 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, 2011 Fiat Grande Punto (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Fiat Grande Punto will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2011 Fiat Grande Punto | |
| Make | BMW | Fiat |
| Model | 523 | Grande Punto |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 118 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.8 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 4.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
