1983 BMW 525 vs. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Microbus is newer by 22 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 2,691 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Microbus (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Microbus should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus weights approximately 225 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.
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, 1983 BMW 525 (240 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. (200 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Volkswagen Microbus. 1983 BMW 525 has automatic transmission and 2005 Volkswagen Microbus has manual transmission. 2005 Volkswagen Microbus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 BMW 525 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2005 Volkswagen Microbus | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | Microbus |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2691 cc | 2553 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1725 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
