1981 BMW 525 vs. 2009 BMW 530
To start off, 2009 BMW 530 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 530 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 530 weights approximately 235 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 2009 BMW 530 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, 2009 BMW 530 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, 2009 BMW 530 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 2009 BMW 530 | |
Make | BMW | BMW |
Model | 525 | 530 |
Year Released | 1981 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 254 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.7:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 7 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1515 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1850 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 10.3 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |