1983 BMW 525 vs. 2001 Dodge Caravan
To start off, 2001 Dodge Caravan is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,301 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Dodge Caravan (173 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 550 kg more than 1983 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 BMW 525 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1983 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Dodge Caravan, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2001 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2001 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525. 2001 Dodge Caravan has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Dodge Caravan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2001 Dodge Caravan | |
| Make | BMW | Dodge |
| Model | 525 | Caravan |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 3301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1800 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2890 mm |
