2009 BMW 530 vs. 1996 Ford Galaxy

To start off, 2009 BMW 530 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Galaxy. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Galaxy would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1996 Ford Galaxy. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Galaxy. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Galaxy weights approximately 89 kg more than 2009 BMW 530.

Because 2009 BMW 530 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 530. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Galaxy, 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 530 (481 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 309 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Galaxy. (172 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Galaxy. 2009 BMW 530 has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Galaxy has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Galaxy will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 530 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 BMW 530 1996 Ford Galaxy
Make BMW Ford
Model 530 Galaxy
Year Released 2009 1996
Body Type Station Wagon Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2993 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 215 HP 118 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 481 Nm 172 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 2300 RPM
Engine Bore Size 84 mm 83 mm
Engine Stroke Size 90 mm 92 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 8 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1590 kg 1679 kg
Vehicle Length 4850 mm 4620 mm
Vehicle Width 1470 mm 1820 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1740 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2830 mm