2008 BMW 530 vs. 1996 BMW 523
To start off, 2008 BMW 530 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 530 (260 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 50 kg more than 2008 BMW 530.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 530 | 1996 BMW 523 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 530 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
