1981 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix is newer by 23 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 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix (260 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 112 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix weights approximately 384 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, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix, 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, 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix (380 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 165 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix 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. 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 525 | 2004 Pontiac Grand Prix | |
| Make | BMW | Pontiac |
| Model | 525 | Grand Prix |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1664 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 64 L |
