1981 BMW 528 vs. 2008 BMW 325
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 27 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 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW 528 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1981 BMW 528. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 275 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 2008 BMW 325 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, 2008 BMW 325 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, 2008 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 528. (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 528.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 528 | 2008 BMW 325 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 528 | 325 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2788 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 234 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
