2009 BMW 325 vs. 1996 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 BMW 325 is newer by 13 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. Both 2009 BMW 325 and 1996 BMW 523 are equipped with a 2,494 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523.
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, 2009 BMW 325 (315 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 325 | 1996 BMW 523 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | 523 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
