2008 Proton Arena vs. 2007 BMW 523
To start off, 2008 Proton Arena is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 523 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2008 Proton Arena.
Because 2007 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 2007 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Proton Arena, 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, 2007 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Proton Arena. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Proton Arena. 2007 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 2008 Proton Arena has manual transmission. 2008 Proton Arena will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Proton Arena | 2007 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Proton | BMW |
| Model | Arena | 523 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.7 seconds | 9.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1280 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
