1981 BMW 525 vs. 1997 Citroen XM
To start off, 1997 Citroen XM is newer by 16 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Citroen XM is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen XM (191 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen XM weights approximately 311 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, 1997 Citroen XM, 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 Citroen XM (278 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen XM will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 525 | 1997 Citroen XM | |
| Make | BMW | Citroen |
| Model | 525 | XM |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 191 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 73 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1591 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
