1981 BMW 525 vs. 1991 BMW M12
To start off, 1991 BMW M12 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 525 would be higher. At 4,988 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 BMW M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 BMW M12 (296 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 BMW M12 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525.
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, 1991 BMW M12 (450 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1991 BMW M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 525 | 1991 BMW M12 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | M12 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 4988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 296 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2610 mm |
