1981 BMW 525 vs. 2007 BMW X5
To start off, 2007 BMW X5 is newer by 26 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 4,798 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X5 (342 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 194 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X5 weights approximately 920 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 2007 BMW X5 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, 2007 BMW X5 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, 2007 BMW X5 (480 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525. 2007 BMW X5 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. 2007 BMW X5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 525 | 2007 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 525 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 4798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 6.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 2200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 93 L |
