1981 BMW 525 vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 30 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 154 more horse power than 1981 BMW 525. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (370 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 525. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 525. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 BMW 525 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | BMW | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 525 | S |
Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 302 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 215 Nm | 370 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.6 seconds | 6.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 5096 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3165 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 90 L |