1979 BMW 725 vs. 1997 Rover 800
To start off, 1997 Rover 800 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Rover 800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Rover 800 (173 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1979 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Rover 800 should accelerate faster than 1979 BMW 725.
Because 1979 BMW 725 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 1979 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Rover 800, 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 Rover 800 (240 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Rover 800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW 725 | 1997 Rover 800 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | 725 | 800 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2780 mm |
