1981 BMW 525 vs. 2005 Saturn Relay
To start off, 2005 Saturn Relay is newer by 24 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Saturn Relay is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn Relay (200 HP) has 52 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn Relay should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn Relay weights approximately 830 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 2005 Saturn Relay 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, 2005 Saturn Relay 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, 2005 Saturn Relay (299 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn Relay will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 525 | 2005 Saturn Relay | |
| Make | BMW | Saturn |
| Model | 525 | Relay |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 2110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5210 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1840 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3080 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 7.2 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 95 L |
