1981 BMW 525 vs. 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
To start off, 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is newer by 15 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 3,350 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (215 HP) has 67 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 285 kg more than 1981 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 BMW 525 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 1981 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo, 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, 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (298 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm). This means 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525. 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 525 | 1996 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | |
| Make | BMW | Chevrolet |
| Model | 525 | Monte Carlo |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3350 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
