1981 BMW 528 vs. 2012 GMC Sierra

To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra is newer by 31 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 6,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (364 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 183 more horse power than 1981 BMW 528. (181 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 528. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1359 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 2012 GMC Sierra 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, 2012 GMC Sierra 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, 2012 GMC Sierra (506 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 266 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 528. (240 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 528. 2012 GMC Sierra has automatic transmission and 1981 BMW 528 has manual transmission. 1981 BMW 528 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 GMC Sierra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1981 BMW 528 2012 GMC Sierra
Make BMW GMC
Model 528 Sierra
Year Released 1981 2012
Body Type Sedan Pickup
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2788 cc 6000 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 181 HP 364 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5400 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 506 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.3:1 10.2:1
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 3 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1300 kg 2659 kg
Vehicle Length 4630 mm 5710 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 2040 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1940 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 3380 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 70 L 129 L