2009 BMW 523 vs. 1991 Rover 820
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Rover 820. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Rover 820 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Rover 820 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 BMW 523. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Rover 820 should accelerate faster than 2009 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 82 kg more than 1991 Rover 820.
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, 1991 Rover 820, 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Rover 820. (215 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Rover 820.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 1991 Rover 820 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | 523 | 820 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1408 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 68 L |
