1983 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Ford Freestar
To start off, 2003 Ford Freestar is newer by 20 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 3,801 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Freestar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Freestar (190 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Freestar should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Freestar weights approximately 690 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, 2003 Ford Freestar, 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, 2003 Ford Freestar (336 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Freestar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525. 2003 Ford Freestar 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. 2003 Ford Freestar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2003 Ford Freestar | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 525 | Freestar |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 3801 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5110 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1950 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3070 mm |
