2009 BMW 523 vs. 1997 Lancia Zeta

To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Lancia Zeta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Lancia Zeta 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 30 more horse power than 1997 Lancia Zeta. (145 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1997 Lancia Zeta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Lancia Zeta weights approximately 150 kg more than 2009 BMW 523.

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, 1997 Lancia Zeta, 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, 1997 Lancia Zeta (235 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Lancia Zeta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 523. 2009 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 1997 Lancia Zeta has manual transmission. 1997 Lancia Zeta 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 1997 Lancia Zeta
Make BMW Lancia
Model 523 Zeta
Year Released 2009 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 145 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5300 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 235 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2500 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1500 kg 1650 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4480 mm
Vehicle Width 1470 mm 1840 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1720 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2830 mm