1981 BMW 520 vs. 2006 BMW 325
To start off, 2006 BMW 325 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,501 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 325 (184 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1981 BMW 520. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 275 kg more than 1981 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 325 (238 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 520. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 520 | 2006 BMW 325 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 520 | 325 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2501 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 123 HP | 184 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 238 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 74.9 mm |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1495 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |