2009 BMW 523 vs. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix

To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac Phoenix 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 85 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (90 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 475 kg more than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. 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, 1983 Pontiac Phoenix, 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 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. (181 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Pontiac Phoenix. 2009 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 1983 Pontiac Phoenix has manual transmission. 1983 Pontiac Phoenix will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 523 1983 Pontiac Phoenix
Make BMW Pontiac
Model 523 Phoenix
Year Released 2009 1983
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 2474 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 175 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 181 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 78.8 mm 101.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 76.2 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 8.2:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1100 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4660 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1360 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2670 mm