1983 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 29 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 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (129 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 BMW 525 weights approximately 3 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen T5.
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, 2012 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2012 Volkswagen T5 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | BMW | Volkswagen |
| Model | 525 | T5 |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 168 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1247 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 80 L |
