2009 BMW 523 vs. 1999 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Zafira. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Zafira 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 61 more horse power than 1999 Opel Zafira. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Zafira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 105 kg more than 1999 Opel Zafira. 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, 1999 Opel Zafira, 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Zafira. (170 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Zafira.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 1999 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 523 | Zafira |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
