2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1996 BMW 523
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW 523 weights approximately 195 kg more than 2008 BMW Z4.
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, 1996 BMW 523 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW Z4. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW Z4.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW Z4 | 1996 BMW 523 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | Z4 | 523 |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3950 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 75 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1545 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4780 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |