1983 BMW 325 vs. 2012 BMW M5
To start off, 2012 BMW M5 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 325 would be higher. At 4,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M5 (560 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 389 more horse power than 1983 BMW 325. (171 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 325.
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, 2012 BMW M5 (680 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 458 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 325. (222 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 325. 2012 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW 325 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW 325 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 325 | 2012 BMW M5 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | 325 | M5 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 4400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 560 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 680 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed automated manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1892 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1455 mm |
