1981 BMW 525 vs. 2009 BMW 318
To start off, 2009 BMW 318 is newer by 28 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, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 318 weights approximately 300 kg more than 1981 BMW 525.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 BMW 318. (200 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1981 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 BMW 318. 2009 BMW 318 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. 2009 BMW 318 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 2009 BMW 318 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 525 | 318 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 10.3 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4490 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |