1981 BMW 525 vs. 1997 Rover 400
To start off, 1997 Rover 400 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 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW 525 (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Rover 400. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 1997 Rover 400.
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 Rover 400, 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, 1981 BMW 525 (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Rover 400. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 525 | 1997 Rover 400 | |
| Make | BMW | Rover |
| Model | 525 | 400 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1589 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 110 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2560 mm |
