1981 BMW 725 vs. 2003 BMW X5
To start off, 2003 BMW X5 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW 725 would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW X5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW X5 (227 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1981 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 should accelerate faster than 1981 BMW 725.
Because 2003 BMW X5 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 BMW 725. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 BMW X5 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, 2003 BMW X5 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW X5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW 725 | 2003 BMW X5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 725 | X5 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 89.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2890 mm |
