2009 BMW 523 vs. 1989 Honda Accord

To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Honda Accord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Honda Accord 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 55 more horse power than 1989 Honda Accord. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1989 Honda Accord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 435 kg more than 1989 Honda Accord. 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, 1989 Honda Accord, 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Honda Accord. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Honda Accord. 2009 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 1989 Honda Accord has manual transmission. 1989 Honda Accord 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 1989 Honda Accord
Make BMW Honda
Model 523 Accord
Year Released 2009 1989
Body Type Sedan Station Wagon
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1955 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 3 valves
Horse Power 175 HP 120 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 165 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 4000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 78.8 mm 82.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82 mm 91 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.1:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1575 kg 1140 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1700 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 60 L