1981 BMW 528 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan

To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 528. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 528 would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Multivan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan (232 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1981 BMW 528. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Multivan weights approximately 1004 kg more than 1981 BMW 528. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2006 Volkswagen Multivan is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 528. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan 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, 2006 Volkswagen Multivan (315 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 528. (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Multivan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 528.

Compare all specifications:

1981 BMW 528 2006 Volkswagen Multivan
Make BMW Volkswagen
Model 528 Multivan
Year Released 1981 2006
Body Type Sedan Van
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2788 cc 3189 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 181 HP 232 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 315 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 2900 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 84 mm
Engine Stroke Size 80 mm 95.9 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 9.3:1 11.3:1
Top Speed 212 km/hour 205 km/hour
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 2304 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 4900 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1950 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 3010 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 80 L