1981 BMW 525 vs. 1998 Infiniti QX4
To start off, 1998 Infiniti QX4 is newer by 17 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Infiniti QX4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Infiniti QX4 (238 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Infiniti QX4 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Infiniti QX4 weights approximately 680 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 1998 Infiniti QX4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 525. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Infiniti QX4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 1998 Infiniti QX4 (359 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Infiniti QX4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525. 1998 Infiniti QX4 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. 1998 Infiniti QX4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 525 | 1998 Infiniti QX4 | |
| Make | BMW | Infiniti |
| Model | 525 | QX4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1800 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
