2009 Proton Arena vs. 2006 BMW 523
To start off, 2009 Proton Arena is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP) has 89 more horse power than 2009 Proton Arena. (86 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2009 Proton Arena.
Because 2006 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 2006 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Proton Arena, 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, 2006 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Proton Arena. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Proton Arena. 2006 BMW 523 has automatic transmission and 2009 Proton Arena has manual transmission. 2009 Proton Arena will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 BMW 523 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Proton Arena | 2006 BMW 523 | |
| Make | Proton | BMW |
| Model | Arena | 523 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1468 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 175 HP |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 227 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.7 seconds | 8.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
