2008 Opel Zafira vs. 2009 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Opel Zafira. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Opel Zafira would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 27 more horse power than 2008 Opel Zafira. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2008 Opel Zafira. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Opel Zafira, 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, 2009 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Zafira. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Zafira | 2009 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Zafira | 523 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
