1972 BMW 3 vs. 2005 BMW 525
To start off, 2005 BMW 525 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 BMW 525 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1972 BMW 3. (201 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 BMW 525 weights approximately 312 kg more than 1972 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 BMW 525 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1972 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 BMW 525 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1972 BMW 3 (271 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 BMW 525. (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 BMW 525. 2005 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 1972 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1972 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 3 | 2005 BMW 525 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 3 | 525 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 224 km/hour | 232 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1686 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2890 mm |
