2009 BMW 523 vs. 1981 Fiat Strada

To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Strada. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Strada 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 @ 5800 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Strada. (125 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Strada. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 585 kg more than 1981 Fiat Strada. 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, 1981 Fiat Strada, 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 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Strada. (172 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Strada.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 523 1981 Fiat Strada
Make BMW Fiat
Model 523 Strada
Year Released 2009 1981
Body Type Sedan Pickup
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 125 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1565 kg 980 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 3940 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1690 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1380 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2440 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 50 L